I love OTTBs– getting a new one is like getting a package under the Christmas tree. You’re filled with hope, excitement, and anticipation of what could be in that mystery box. Such is how I feel when turning over rocks, poking into corners, and stumbling upon what *could be* a future nice horse. Of course, when that new horse steps off the racetrack, there may be some doubts. The skinny, scrawny, awkward animal is a long way from the average image of a dream horse. You squint, close one eye (or both), to try to imagine what that rack…

  You do not need to have an Olympic appearance on your record to seek out ownership support. There are many individuals who would be interested in joining your team and supporting your riding journey even if you are not targeting a four-star in the near future. But when you head out looking for owners you need to forget the traditional model of ownership – a wealthy individual already steeped in Eventing culture – and broaden your horizons to bring new people into the sport. People who would get satisfaction and enjoyment from being part of a sports team and watching a…

  Last week, I shared tips on how to “Unclutter your riding life” by donating, selling and throwing away horsey items that you are no longer using. Another option you have is hosting a ‘tack swap’. This is an event where you and fellow riders get together and trade horsey items with one another. A tack swap is a perfect opportunity to quickly get rid of the things you do not need while acquiring the things you desperately need at zero cost. Perhaps you’ve become a saddle pad hoarder but your bit collection is severely lacking; the good news is…

  Eventers are a pretty awesome bunch: tough, talented, and maybe a little insane. They’re quick to lend a hand – or a stud kit – to those in need, and I like to think the eventing community sets a high bar for camaraderie amongst competitors. That being said, we can all still afford to execute a quick self-check from time to time to avoid being “that (gender neutral) guy.” Everyone knows a “that guy,” and as the familiar old trope goes, if you don’t know one, then you’re it. Read on for a few examples you might see around…

  I am always trying to save money. I live on a very tight budget and I like nice things and nice horses. I hate wasting money on anything, especially truck fuel. Last year, during the Florida season, gas hovered around $2.00 a gallon even spiking much lower a couple of times and it made me very happy. Every penny I save on fuel, I can put towards more lessons and enjoying Sushi night at Tony’s. Today in Ocala, I drove by gas stations trying to entice me in at $2.49. It made me want to puke. I started thinking…

  Meet the Monster Earlier this year, I began training a 6yo OTTB gelding who shows a lot of talent. As with most “fresh meat” off the track, he has a lot of habits to unlearn and develop a new way of going. However, he’s turned out to be one of my most challenging restarts… waist-deep into the process, I’m starting to see glimmers of hope; but there have definitely been days when I wonder if he will EVER get better! Standing 17.1 and weighing about 1400lbs, he is, as I call him, a “Monster.” He has huge bone, a…