Your source for all things OTTB

ImageImageImage

Meet the 2021 #RacehorseResolution Winner

January 11, 2021

135854464 1636818509831509 6561302122054889502 n

Big thanks to EVERYONE who participated in our 2021 #RacehorseResolution contest! We put out the call for you to share your Thoroughbred-related resolutions for the year on social media, and received a ton of entries. The staff favorite: Jean French!

My Mo-Mantra…

“2020 is over…be appreciative that you, your family, your horses and your business survived and now, work even harder to keep it that way…”

Yes, we all overcame incredible hurdles in 2020, but more challenges await us in 2021.

My 2020 mega-makeover bound OTTB Moneigh Moproblems, AKA Mo, and I, are so very thankful to have the extra months to continue body building, training and pushing on, in a continuous uphill battle.

Many may disagree, but this uphill battle is exactly what Mo and I need! 2020, we overcame so much, including but not limited to a minor fracture, major abscesses, and of course typical young horse opinions that come with training…and every “Mo-Moment” was worth it.

2021-WILL-BE-MO-BETTA!!

 

Our #RacehorseResolution is extensive, complicated, difficult and exciting.

Mo has big shoes to fill…

Mo’s new full-time job is as my lead trail horse, a job previously occupied by my two ranch quarter horses, both newly retired. I’m the owner of a public western trail riding operation in VA, and Mo is now my primary lead horse, at age 7. All I can say is he’s exceeding all expectations thus far…and customers love to see and learn about this gentle giant.

Mo has goals to reach…

Mo is entered into the Freestyle for RRP this October. He is training for a 5 minute performance to the music of “A Knight’s Tale” and not only is learning to carry me with armor, but has to learn to joust. All I can say is so far, I sound like a giant conglomeration of pots and pans banging around on Mo’s back as he just putters around quietly, probably thinking…”Can you PLEASE be MO quiet up there??!”

Mo is also entered into Dressage for his second discipline. He is developing his topline, learning to use his body and has started intensive dressage training, when he’s not busy doing his full-time job. When Mo pins his ears while learning a new skillset, I’m positive he is saying, “…dressage is way MO harder than it looks!!!” 

Honestly, these are very lofty goals, mostly because it’s simultaneous, but I simply cannot wait to see who Mo will be by October of 2021!

Our goal is simple…to get better, to be better than yesterday and stay hopeful for tomorrow.

2021-WILL-BE-MO-BETTA!!

Jean will receive her choice of a $100 credit on her Thoroughbred Makeover application fee, or $100 in credit at the RRP Store.

In Other News

October 8, 2026

First Day of Preliminary Competition Concludes at 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover

Preliminary competition is underway at the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America. More than 250 horses are competing across ten disciplines, with Ranch Work preliminary winner Our Girl Flint taking the first honors of the week.…
Read More
Featured image for “First Day of Preliminary Competition Concludes at 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover”
October 5, 2026

Finding Twosday

On Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at precisely 9:22 am, a bay colt took his first breaths on Legacy Farm in Northern Virginia. One of 12 foals born at the farm that year, and one of 17,233 Thoroughbreds registered with The…
Read More
Featured image for “Finding Twosday”
September 29, 2026

Thoroughbred Charities of America Returns as Presenting Sponsor of 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) and Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) jointly announced today that TCA will return as presenting sponsor of the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, the RRP’s banner event. TCA’s commitment to improving the lives and…
Read More
Featured image for “Thoroughbred Charities of America Returns as Presenting Sponsor of 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium”
September 21, 2026

2026 Bill Kraatz Thoroughbred Makeover Ambassador Award: Wally K  

Named for past chief steward Bill Kraatz, who passed away in 2022, the Thoroughbred Makeover Ambassador Award recognizes a Thoroughbred Makeover graduate horse that has gone on to serve as an ambassador for the athleticism and trainability of the retired…
Read More
Featured image for “2026 Bill Kraatz Thoroughbred Makeover Ambassador Award: Wally K  ”
September 9, 2026

Rethinking the ‘Spooky’ Thoroughbred

Why do Thoroughbreds spook? Learn how trainers distinguish sensitivity from anxiety, identify possible causes of spooky behavior and help Thoroughbreds build confidence through thoughtful training and whole-horse care.…
Read More
Featured image for “Rethinking the ‘Spooky’ Thoroughbred”
August 24, 2026

Retired Racehorse Project Announces Charity Polo Match for 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover

New for 2026, the Retired Racehorse Project will host a charity polo match during the Thoroughbred Makeover at the Kentucky Horse Park. The Friday evening event will feature polo, a performance by the Cadillac Cowgirls, tailgating, food trucks, and more,…
Read More
Featured image for “Retired Racehorse Project Announces Charity Polo Match for 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover”
July 30, 2026

Claim Your Makeover Connections

No excerpt…
Read More
July 28, 2026

Understanding Hindgut Dysfunction in Thoroughbreds

From subtle colic signs to changes in manure and behavior, hindgut dysfunction can affect Thoroughbreds in many ways. Experts explain how to recognize the signs, reduce risk, and support digestive health during the transition from racing.…
Read More
Featured image for “Understanding Hindgut Dysfunction in Thoroughbreds”
July 8, 2026

When a Rider Realizes They Are Asking For An Incorrect Distance or None At All, What Should They Do?

Finding the perfect distance doesn’t happen every time. In this Trainer Tuesday, experienced trainers share their best advice for staying balanced, supporting the horse, and recovering confidently when a jump doesn’t come up as planned.…
Read More
Featured image for “When a Rider Realizes They Are Asking For An Incorrect Distance or None At All, What Should They Do?”
June 30, 2026

Topline Training for Thoroughbreds

Building a strong topline takes more than miles under saddle. Learn how thoughtful exercises, proper posture, and quality movement can help Thoroughbreds develop the strength, balance, and muscle needed for a successful transition from racing into new disciplines.…
Read More
Featured image for “Topline Training for Thoroughbreds”
June 12, 2026

Ambassador Award Nomination Form

No excerpt…
Read More
June 5, 2026

June Trainer Newsletter: Midyear Deadlines & Webinar

Not to panic y’all, but we are OVER halfway to the Makeover. The month of June comes with a lot of deadlines to consider and some exciting additions to the event! Read this email in its entirety to ensure you…
Read More
June 5, 2026

February Trainer Newsletter: Opportunities and Upcoming Webinar

Class of 2026! Your first official Trainer Newsletter is here. Did you know that being a Makeover Trainer comes with a lot of opportunities and cool perks? You can market your journey to sponsors, get featured on RRP socials, earn…
Read More
June 3, 2026

Thoroughbred Conformation and Movement Misconceptions and Realities

Stereotypes about Thoroughbred conformation and movement can cause riders to overlook exceptional sport horse prospects. Learn what experts look for when evaluating OTTBs and how training can help horses reach their full athletic potential.…
Read More
Featured image for “Thoroughbred Conformation and Movement Misconceptions and Realities”
June 1, 2026

Retired Racehorse Project Announces New Graduate Classes for 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover

The Retired Racehorse Project has announced the addition of Graduate Classes to the 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover, giving Makeover alumni an opportunity to return to the Kentucky Horse Park and compete once again as part of the Thoroughbred Makeover experience.…
Read More
Featured image for “Retired Racehorse Project Announces New Graduate Classes for 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover”
May 26, 2026

The Buzz on Fly Control

Flies can transmit dangerous diseases. Learn about the risks and smart fly-control strategies that really work.…
Read More
Featured image for “The Buzz on Fly Control”
May 20, 2026

Picking Prospects: Spring 2026

Makeover trainers evaluate sport horse potential based on conformation shots…
Read More
Featured image for “Picking Prospects: Spring 2026”
May 13, 2026

Sacroiliac Dysfunction in Thoroughbreds

Sacroiliac dysfunction can be difficult to diagnose in Thoroughbreds, often presenting as vague hind-end soreness, behavioral changes, or declining performance. In this article, sports medicine experts explain the causes, warning signs, and rehabilitation strategies that can help horses return successfully…
Read More
Featured image for “Sacroiliac Dysfunction in Thoroughbreds”
May 8, 2026

Ask a Trainer: Busy Mouths

Kristina Aaron shares advice for helping settle horses with “busy mouths” under saddle using mental stimulation and practical training tips…
Read More
Featured image for “Ask a Trainer: Busy Mouths”
May 5, 2026

Retired Racehorse Project’s Kirsten Green Appointed to Maryland Racing Commission

The Retired Racehorse Project today announced that its executive director, Kirsten Green, has been sworn in to serve on the Maryland Racing Commission, following an appointment by Governor Wes Moore and confirmation by the Executive Nominations Committee of the State…
Read More
Featured image for “Retired Racehorse Project’s Kirsten Green Appointed to Maryland Racing Commission”