Thoroughbred Makeover: Showcasing the Versatility and Trainability of Ex-Racehorses

The Thoroughbred Makeover, the largest retraining competition for recently-retired racehorses, is set to return to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington from October 9-12, 2023. This annual event, organized by the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP), celebrates the versatility and trainability of off-track Thoroughbreds as they transition into second careers.

Unlocking the Potential of Retired Racehorses

A Grassroots Movement Gains Momentum

The Thoroughbred Makeover has its roots in a grassroots effort that began in 2009 when Steuart Pittman organized the Retired Racehorse Training Symposium. Recognizing the growing popularity of warmbloods and the lack of marketing for ex-racehorses as sport horse prospects, Pittman laid the foundation for what would become the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) and the Thoroughbred Makeover.In 2012, the RRP hosted the 100-Day Trainer Challenge at the Pennsylvania Horse World Expo, which served as a precursor to the Thoroughbred Makeover. The following year, the first Thoroughbred Makeover was held at Pimlico Race Course, featuring 26 trainers and horses. In 2015, the event found its permanent home at the Kentucky Horse Park, where it has been held ever since.

A Celebration of Thoroughbred Versatility

The Thoroughbred Makeover is designed to showcase the diverse talents and adaptability of off-track Thoroughbreds. Competitors, ranging from professionals to amateurs and juniors, are tasked with training their Jockey Club-registered Thoroughbreds in one or two of the ten competitive disciplines offered: barrel racing, competitive trail, dressage, eventing, field hunter, polo, ranch work, show hunter, show jumper, and freestyle."Some of these horses are turning into reliable trail partners, and others will go on to pursue an elite career in something a little more demanding," said Kristen Kovatch Bentley, RRP's communications manager. "We don't want to pigeonhole the Thoroughbred into one particular track after racing. It is not just a question of getting them the best training and all of them can be Olympic horses."

A Showcase of Talent and Trainability

The Thoroughbred Makeover attracts a diverse range of horses, from those with published works but no racing experience to seasoned veterans like King's House, who made an impressive 119 starts. This variety showcases the incredible trainability and versatility of the Thoroughbred breed."A long-term marketing goal is to keep building the idea of embracing a second career," said Kovatch Bentley. "These horses did not win the Kentucky Derby, and that's okay. They are having productive lives, and they are loved. Come out, see the competition, and support and celebrate your former horses. Celebrate Thoroughbreds in second careers."

Fostering Connections and Increasing Value

The Thoroughbred Makeover not only celebrates the horses but also aims to foster connections between competitors and the Thoroughbred industry. This year, the RRP introduced the Makeover Champions program, inviting members of the racing industry to demonstrate public support for former connected horses competing in the event."The Makeover trainers are very invested in the fact that they have a former racehorse, and we are hoping the racing industry equally embraces it," said Kovatch Bentley. "Really the only requirement is that they share updates about their former horses on social media or their website through Makeover week. We would also love to have them come out and show them around."The RRP also tracks the value of retiring Thoroughbreds destined for second careers, noting a significant increase in the average price from around $1,000 per horse in 2015 to over $3,000 now. This rise in value is seen as a positive step, encouraging more connections to retire horses sounder and younger, avoiding the "one last race" mentality that can put horses and people at risk.

A Bucket List Event for Competitors

The Thoroughbred Makeover has become a highly anticipated event for both competitors and spectators. While some may be aiming for the $10,000 prize, Kovatch Bentley notes that most participants are there to celebrate the breed and achieve a personal goal."There will always be people who show up who are planning to bring home that $10,000 check, but generally most people are there to celebrate the breed and have a bucket list show, a major goal to work toward," she said. "We have been able to build this fanbase for the breed through this particular event. It has become something people want to participate in. If they happen to win and bring home some money, so much the better, but they are just happy to be part of the movement."The Thoroughbred Makeover is a testament to the enduring spirit and versatility of the Thoroughbred breed. By showcasing the talents of these retired racehorses, the event not only inspires more equestrians to get involved with Thoroughbreds but also celebrates the breed's ability to thrive in a wide range of disciplines, from elite competition to recreational pursuits.