OTTB Fresh Start Program
Every year thousands of Thoroughbred racehorses retire from the track. Some find their way to successful new homes but many are stuck with little or no new options. OTTB restarting has been a passion of Kate's for many years. In 2014, MVEC started a program called Fresh Start in order to provide an avenue for some of these horses (EA, Laila, Enormiso & Brown Feather) to begin new careers. OTTB's are easy to come by but can be difficult to train if left in the wrong hands. The Fresh Start program is dedicated to helping potential and new OTTB owners to get on the right track with their new projects. The program focuses on consistent, patience training for the horse along with proper education of OTTB owners. MVEC's training program is dedicated to continued education, so we offer training for all levels of OTTBs.
We have many success stories, please contact Kate today if you are interested in finding yourself an OTTB, whether its straight from the track or if you need help continuing your horse's training.
Lucky to Have Me- "Lucy"
Lucy retired from the track in November of 2023 and has been properly let down since then. She has joined MVEC's Fresh Start Program from another local trainer in hopes to find her next home! If you are looking to go on a training journey, Lucy is ready for her next person!
Fresh Start Graduates!
"Air Wonderful"- Moose
Moose came to us during 2020 and affectionately is referred to as our "covid" purchase. His close lineage to Airborne, made bringing him to MVEC an easy decision. Moose has proven to be a calm, quiet OTTB with only the occasional red headed moment. He is barn favorite and a personality plus character. His best friend is 29 year old Charlie, another retired OTTB. Moose has dabbled in the show ring in both dressage and low level eventing. Moose has been an easy restart and we are excited to watch him continue to progress through his new career path.
"I Believe I Can"- Jack
Jack is a graduate of the MVEC Fresh Start Program. He came to MVEC straight from the track where he was introduced to his new riding career. Owned by Molly Fabrizio, Jack currently competes at the Novice level of eventing while schooling Training level. He has also been successfully schooling first level dressage. Molly and Jack just recently won our annual high jump competition.
"Monoxide"- Otto
Otto is perhaps the "poster child" for the MVEC Fresh Start Program. He came to us as a leggy three year old and has been in our training program ever since. At 17.2hh tall now, he is the tallest OTTB around but also one of the gentlest. Otto has become a valuable asset in the lesson and lease program. His quiet, easy ride-ability makes him a favorite with all riders. He successfully competes at the Novice level of eventing and is schooling first level dressage. He absolutely loves to trail ride and hunter pace. Otto competed in the Area 1 Beginner Novice Championships for 2021 and finished third on his dressage score, as well as qualified at the Novice Level in 2022.
"Noon Shadow"- Trouble
Trouble certainly earned his name in more ways than one as he progressed through the Fresh Start Program. With a fiery spirit, he has proven to be a force to be reckoned with and has successfully been competing in Training Level with his owner Alexa Duncan. It is exciting to watch this talented pair continue down the path to success in their new Aiken home!
"Mighty Bite"- Naoise
Another tall OTTB, Naoise is a gentle giant who completed the MVEC Fresh Start Program after some let- down time from the track. He is a talented and forgiving horse that was an absolute pleasure to work with. His funny antics and big heart made him a great addition to the program. Best wishes to the Daly family with their big guy!
"Majestic Act"- Maggie
Maggie was adopted by Jen and was successfully re-started through the MVEC Program. Maggie is a sweet natured horse with a big heart. Jen and Maggie completed their first schooling dressage show together. MVEC wishes them continued success in their partnership together!