Race Horses in Training

Horse racing, known as the Sport of Kings, has been popular for decades in the United States and internationally. It is an exciting sport for spectators and participants alike. The main breed of horse conditioned for racing is the Thoroughbred. According to Preston Burch in his book "Training Thoroughbred Horses," the Thoroughbred's legacy is its "ability to carry great weight over long distance." These majestic animals require specific care and training to achieve optimal success on the race track.

  1. Early Training

    • A young horse in between the ages of one and two, known as a yearling, can begin conditioning for the racetrack. According to Burch, the process of "breaking" the horse begins by getting him used to a bridle. This is used to direct the horse and should be introduced gently. Next, the horse should be acclimated to a saddle and eventually to having a rider on his back. Once this has been accomplished, Burch recommends starting slow walks with the horse, moving up slowly to faster speeds and longer distances. During this process, Burch cites the importance of being kind and gentle to the horse, and stresses that this will pay off in later handling and training.

    Two- and Three-Year-Old Training

    • Two- and three-year-old horses are trained in a similar manner. They should start with shorter distances and slower speeds, gradually working up to increased distances. In addition, a two-year-old should be "gate schooled," meaning he should be trained in how to stand still quietly and then break out of the gate when the race begins. It also is important to keep a record of each workout as you do not want to overtax a horse. According to Burch, you should "never give a horse a speedy work until you are sure that he has had the proper foundation of slow work to make him physically fit for the faster move."

    Feeding

    • A race horse in training requires a specific feeding schedule and diet. You don't want to overfeed a horse that is in training and also don't give a horse musty oats. Burch recommends clean oats with a "good, meaty kernel." The schedule should be a small meal in the early morning, a second small mid morning meal, and the big meal in early evening. In addition, the horse should be allowed to eat hay in his stall. On race days, the horse should be given only a handful of hay in the morning and his usual breakfast. Always have fresh water in the horse's stall.

    Foot Care

    • In the racing industry, a common expression is "no foot, no horse." It is important to make sure the race horse's feet receive frequent inspections and attention. You should employ a good farrier, a person who puts shoes on the horse's feet. He will be able to ensure the hoof is level and help prevent injuries to the horse.