Training the basics Katie Jerram-Hunnable helps you hone an ex-racehorse for his new career

Ex-racehorses are a popular choice of partner for many people. Showing star Katie Jerram-Hunnable has advice for getting the best out of yours

MANY HORSES RETIRING from racing are well suited to take on a different career. This could be as simple as enjoying long hacks in the countryside, or as demanding as eventing at the highest level. “Whatever your ambition, if you’re buying or adopting an ex-racer, bear in mind that his temperament and physical ability will dictate what he does next,” explains Katie. “Most do become calmer and stronger as their re-schooling progresses though, and if their training is taken slowly and covers all the basics before moving onwards, they can be fabulous. They are quick learners and very willing and many become successful show horses once the basics are instilled. “The Re-training of Racehorses (ROR) show series is a great starting point for them.”

Changing shape

Call Me Dillon is an eight-year-old who came out of racing in November 2017. He wasn’t particularly successful as he had breathing issues when galloping, but he retired sound. “So far, he’s been to four shows, won one and placed in the other three,” explains Katie. “He is quite sharp, as ex-racers can be, which we have to work with. At the moment he’s completely the wrong shape for a show horse, with a huge, lean frame and upsidedown neck and head, so his work is aimed at tackling this, and hacking too, for relaxation.” As with a lot of ex-racehorses, working into a contact and being able to bend correctly are also areas Katie has been targeting. Dillon is the right stamp to be a successful lightweight/ladies show hunter. This is what Katie and her team are aiming him at, although his initial training is all about learning to be a riding horse, not a racehorse.