Racehorse Retraining

I began my equestrian career as a work rider for renowned jockey and trainer Charlie Swan, developing a strong appreciation for the intelligence and athleticism of the thoroughbred breed, which later led me to focus on rehabilitating and retraining ex-racehorses.

In recent years, ex-racehorse ownership has soared. Many people want to have a part in these versatile, intelligent, brave athletes’ lives after racing. And for good reason! Thoroughbreds have shown that they can turn their hooves to anything, and with the increase in events such as Racehorse to Riding Horse showing classes, and the investment of organisations such as Treo Eile, owning an ex-racer can be very rewarding.

Racehorses who have finished their career on the track also present us with challenges unique to their breed and previous training when we begin to explore their new careers. Teaching these horses how to respond to classical aids, how to change their balance and use their bodies in a new way can be difficult. And then we have the additional care needs of the ex-racehorse. From stomach ulcers to poor hoof condition to that elusive weight gain, your ex-racehorse will require knowledge, expertise and a lot of patience.

I have been retraining racehorses for many years, and in that time I have developed a wealth of experience and knowledge in the care and development of the retrained racehorse.

My ex-national hunt star Hash Brown, Diva-in-Residence here at Rebecca Hayes Equestrian, has brought me a huge amount of joy and success in both showing and dressage, including a placing in the Dublin Horse Show Racehorse to Riding Horse Class and multiple wins at Prelim, Novice and Elementary regional dressage competitions. Most recently we were the proud winners of the 2024 Treo Eile Dressage Ireland Award for highest percentage achieved by a thoroughbred nationally in both the Preliminary and Novice categories. So I know all about the rewards of retraining a racehorse. But I also know the struggles that must be overcome on the way to such victories.

So whether you are just starting out on your journey with your newly acquired racehorse, or you need some guidance on how to overcome the challenges that will crop up along the road to retraining success, I can help both you and your horse work towards and begin to enjoy their second career!

Get in touch today to discuss how I can help you reach your goals with your thoroughbred.