At 11:18:47 on 10.08.10, just_breathe_tee wrote:
So far, ive had two horses off the track, one of whom was very unfit, so training wasnt an issue. however the newbie is a different issue. he is learning quickly, but as he is new i dont want to trust him too much. does anyone have any good tips on how to train a young xracer, including some ground work... he still thinks he is boss.

At 15:25:34 on 10.08.10, JessAndGrenville123 wrote:
Join up will sort out who's boss im working with a 3yo ex racer at the minute although he isn't mine im riding him for a friend while grenville is out of action and the thing with ex racers is they tend to be really babyish and often 'spit their dummies out' as my instructor puts it so i would make everything a game. You need to keep thoroughbred's minds occupied so challenge him. Give him puzzles to figure out in the stable and field and give him options when you train too, he has to do what you ask when you ask without being trapped into it, for example if he refused a jump don't punnish him ant try again straight away just with-hold the praise do a few laps of canter to restore calm then try again with both of you relaxed but push a bit harder. You can apply this concept with everything so he learns if he doesn't do what you say first time he gets ignored and pushed harder and eventually he should be great (especially since he is a quick learner) but be careful not to make any mistakes or show weakness as cleaver horses often find weaknesses and play on it and then it is a vicious circle. Good luck :)