Each year thousands of racehorses come out of training often before retirement age; the reasons for which are numerous. Increasingly the horse industry is recognising that many of these ex-racehorses are able to successfully adapt to a non-racing lifestyle as a leisure horse or to compete in other equestrian sports such as dressage, eventing, showing and polo.
The Thoroughbred has many fantastic attributes and given the correct re-training in the right atmosphere, can excel in an alternative career and be a real joy to own.
It is however, imperative to re-train these horses correctly to ensure a smooth transition from racehorse to riding horse.
At GFE we work with racehorses out of training to re-educate them as a riding horse. This is completed for clients and with our own horses which are then sold on as competition or leisure horses. The process takes patience and skill but is extremely rewarding. Whilst all horses are individuals and must be treated as such, the process generally runs as follows:
The process always commences regardless or individual history with a thorough check up from our dentist, physiotherapist or chiropractor and farrier. At this point shoes are taken off, other general health checks are made and worming completed.
All re-educating racehorses are then allowed a period of time at grass to relax and unwind. We find this phase is absolutely key to a successful outcome.
Stages 1 and 2 of the process can be completed at your own facilities but is also offered by GFE should you wish.
This phase is akin to the normal backing process and involves fitting of tack, lunging and predominantly long-reining. The initial ground work in long lines helps with the development of balance and suppleness required in the riding horse.
All re-educating racehorses are re-backed to ensure clarity in the difference between their former and future career. This is done in conjunction with the groundwork stage.
Once the groundwork and backing has been completed, hacking out forms the next important phase of training. This helps to create a relaxed, confident and forward-thinking horse and forms the essential Basis before further schooling work, gymnastic pole work and jumping are introduced.
We re-educate our own ex-racehorses every year and also offer this service to clients. We can also provide help or assistance to owners of ex-racehorses who may have already started the process.
Please contact either Alison alison@gfeq.co.uk or Emily emily@gfeq.co.uk to discuss your individual requirements or if you have any questions.
 
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