How to Train a Retired Racehorse for Pleasure

A racehorse typically retires after two to five years. If the horse's racing career was successful, it may be used as a breeding stallion or a broodmare, however, the vast majority are sent to slaughter. The reality of horse racing is that few are "shining stars" and retire early because of a racing-related injury or if it isn't earning enough to justify the owner keeping it on the track. A retired Thoroughbred is relatively immature developmentally, and combined with its level of intelligence, temperament, versatility and athleticism, is an excellent prospect for a second career. Adopting and retraining a retired racehorse provides an alternative to the inhumane and useless slaughter of a still viable and healthy animal.

Things You'll Need

  • Stud chain, 24-to-30 inches
  • Bridle
  • Splint boots
  • Fleece-lined surcingle
  • Loose ring snaffle bit
  • Lead rope
  • Side reins
  • Lunge line
  • Light whip
  • Round pen
  • Loose ring snaffle bit
  • Riding tack
  • Fleece-lined girth
  • Mounting block
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Instructions

  1. Socializing and Groundwork

    • 1

      Turn the horse out in a small individual paddock for two or three days, allowing it to adjust to the new environment.

    • 2

      Introduce the horse to pasture mates gradually. Socialization and a natural herd environment are essential and will reduce the horse's anxiety, apprehension and nervousness.

    • 3

      Teach the horse to stand tied. Begin tying it in the stall first, since that's where the horse is most comfortable. Gradually move to other areas in and outside the barn or paddock, leading up to grooming, bathing and tacking. Don't tie the horse without supervision until it's learned to stand calmly.

    • 4

      Fit your horse with the surcingle, bridle, snaffle bit and splint boots for over-reach protection during lunging.

    • 5

      Wrap the stud chain through the halter and around the horse's nose. Adjust it on the halter for adequate control, allowing you to redirect the horse's attention. The horse may be excitable in the first days of retraining and the curb chain will alleviate explosive behavior.

    • 6

      Lead the horse to the round pen by holding the lead rope in your left hand and keeping your right hand approximately one foot away from the halter on the horse's left side.

    • 7

      Attach the lunge line to the snaffle and adjust the side reins to provide for loose contact. That will allow the horse to stretch down during forward transitions while maintaining contact with the bit.

    • 8

      Stand on the horse's left side, relax the reins and provide a light, gentle cue with the whip, encouraging it to move forward. Exercise a gentle tap near the hocks or ground, using the whip as a guide and support, not a threat.

    • 9

      Move the horse in a circle around you by keeping your body and leading-line hand with the horse's head, and your driving hand (whip) in line with its croup (rump).

    • 10

      Lunge the horse in both directions to improve the "one-sidedness" characteristic of a racehorse, and developing its bend and balance.

    Pleasure Riding

    • 11

      Fit the horse with riding tack, which includes a fleece-lined girth with elastic on both sides for even pressure and comfort. That will allow the horse to adjust to a standard riding saddle.

    • 12

      Mount the horse from its left side by standing on the mounting block, turning the horse's head toward you with the reins and softly swinging your right leg over its back.

    • 13

      Teach your horse to stand calmly after you mount and before moving forward. A racehorse typically takes off at a trot during mounting. Request assistance until your horse learns to stand quietly as you mount to ensure your safety.

    • 14

      Move the horse forward slowly, maintaining light contact with your seat, hands and legs.

    • 15

      Perform serpentines or move the horse forward in circles if it becomes nervous. That will enable you to regain the horse's attention, alleviate tension and build confidence.