05/15/2026
As we work with hundreds of off track thoroughbreds each year, we are often asked our opinions about downtime for horses retiring from racing. Inevitably, the answer is, “it depends on the horse”. If a horse comes in in great shape, healthy, sound, good feet, and mentally steady, we find that they generally benefit from an immediate introduction to their new career. The reality is that farm life, with our policy of as much turnout as possible, is already a significant “let down” from track life. Most horses thrive with short rides that help define the new, lower and slower expectations of life as a sport or pleasure horse. But, there are definitely exceptions to this rule. The mare pictured is a clear illustration of a horse that needs a little downtime. The first picture, taken just a day after her arrival (and four days after her last race on May 1), shows a tucked up, uncomfortable horse that needs to relax mentally and physically. She was very well-behaved but had the feel of a horse that is shut-down due to discomfort or stress or being pushed too hard. She was given her own paddock (she will have friends as soon as she is comfortable enough to interact!) and all the alfalfa she can eat. Just over a week later, she already looks like a different girl! You can just see how much more relaxed she is through her body. She is actually showing a bit more s***k and has some opinions which are very positive signs that she is mentally finding her balance as well!! So, if you are wondering whether your OTTB needs downtime after retirement, just look closely and pay attention to what they have to say. While some whisper and some yell, they always tell you if you know how to listen. 💙