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What is a Re-Trainer?
A Thoroughbred retrainer is a horse professional who specializes in transitioning retired racehorses into new careers after racing. Their job is to re-educate and rehabilitate ex-racehorses (OTTBs — Off-The-Track Thoroughbreds) so they can safely and successfully move into disciplines like show jumping, dressage, eventing, show hunting, polo, pleasure riding, or therapy work.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Re-Trainer include:
- Assessment
- Re-training & Re-conditioning
- Behavioural Transition
- Fitness & Body Development
- Placement & Aftercare
A Thoroughbred retrainer transforms a racehorse into a well-rounded riding horse by retraining its body, mind, and behaviour for life beyond the racetrack. They are essential in ensuring Thoroughbreds have safe, successful, and fulfilling second careers.
Steps to becoming a Re-Trainer
- Strong horsemanship & riding ability
- Patience and behavioural understanding
- Knowledge of soundness, conformation, and rehab planning
- Ability to manage anxiety, tension, and learning challenges
- Good matchmaking and communication skills
Jess Land
Following the launch of the NZTR Acknowledged Retrainer's Network last year, we headed over to meet Acknowledged Retrainer Jess Land at Jess Land Equestrian to find out just what it takes to help our equine superstars find their post racing niche