Training Opportunities in Brigadoon

Hosted on a rare sunny day in July, our OTTWA Training Day saw 27 retired race horses attending lessons. This clinic provided riders with cross country, jumping and flatwork tuition, along with the opportunity to train in dressage protocol tests and jump a training round.

Out on the lush green cross-country field, coach Wendy Cumming guided participants through exercises around and through the water jump. The horses enjoyed the opportunity to splash through the water. Retraining program graduate, Four Needed NZ, showed off his wonderful talent amongst the thoroughbreds.

Jumping lessons were well supported with Krystal Wang guiding riders through exercises in preparation for their training rounds. We were joined by horses such as Demi Go Round, Houndstooth and Drama Free to name a few.

In the International arena, Wendy Barker focused on lateral movements and relaxation amongst the riders and horses. It was lovely to watch horses settle into their lesson to learn and develop.

We received plenty of feedback from riders, with all eager to attend more.

“The most rewarding part of this clinic was being able to get on my horse and receive feedback in our flatwork lesson.”

Rider’s enjoyed the addition of the coffee truck, kindly catered by Hally’s Lattes, and we were joined by local stock feeders, Herne Hill Stockfeeds, as part of our Herd Hero promotions.

Overall, the clinic was a lovely day out for all involved and we look forward to our next one in September on the seventh.

FAST FACTS

Of the 27 horses who entered, three horses never raced at all.

A further 12 horses raced for under ten starts before retiring, and two horses raced for over 100 starts! Regardless of their racing careers, each and every horse received guidance from their coaches to prepare and develop them further into their off-the-track careers.

Three horses retired from racing in 2025 and were just beginning their off the track journeys. These horses were Algendy, Justalittle Sass and Said No One Ever.

24 of the 27 entrants were West Australian bred retired racehorses.

Two horses were Gangemi Racing graduates (American Troop and Panzdown), with another two trained by Justine Erkelens (Elocin and Epic Story).

All horses participated thanks to their OTTWA Passport, providing them access to educational clinics such as these, along with many more exciting incentives!