If you’re a horse racing enthusiast, the idea of choosing a racehorse for yourself might have crossed your mind once or twice. While this can be a pretty exciting experience, you also need to remember that it is a serious lifelong commitment.
You also need to make sure that you know what you’re looking for. For example, in the world of horse racing, one of the most important elements of a high-achieving horse is having good conformation. This simply means that the horse is put together correctly and all of its parts work cohesively.
If a horse has good conformation, commercial success is far more likely. Here are some things to consider before taking the plunge.
That You’re Working With A Reliable Source
Choosing a racehorse can be quite exciting. Yet it’s far more important that you remember it isn’t a small investment to make. Due to the severity of your decision, it’s probably best to work with an experienced trainer — or at least somebody with some racehorse experience — to help you work out the best horse for you.
There are a lot of things you can consider when you begin making this decision like the horse’s overall health, age, and temperament. Working with a professional who knows exactly what they’re doing also allows you to verify your purchase.
You could also look at the features of 2022 top breeders cup contenders and compare them to the racehorse you are looking to choose. This might help you make a decision.
Temperament And Intelligence
Generally, the calmer the racehorse is, the better it will perform. This is because it will have a better ability to focus on the current task. A calmer horse also won’t run around and burn off the energy that it needs for the races.
You should keep an eye out for a horse that possesses the following characteristics: relaxed, well-nurtured, calm, and alert.
You should also choose a horse that shows a significant amount of intelligence. Take the time to stop and observe whether the horse is in control of its actions and is also aware of its surroundings.
Pedigree
When choosing a racehorse, you also must consider pedigree or their ‘family tree.’ The Dam (mother) and Sire (father) both contribute to a horse’s ability to perform well in a race, so this information is vital!
A sire that has produced many Stakes winners is more appealing than not. However, if he were to perform successfully in a race, offspring may wind up costing a lot more than planned.
Horses do not always inherit behavioral traits from their parents. Yet pedigree remains one of the biggest tools that any punter has in their arsenal.
Coat
Horses with shiny coats should be sought out as it is a huge indicator of their health. If the horse looks well then they’re likely feeling well, too! A well-groomed coat is a sign that they are prepared for sale and performance — so it’s also important to remember these horses are likely to attract a huge number of potential buyers.
Balance
Balance is a key element for a racehorse, whether you’re planning to make a bet or purchase one of your own. To summarise, a horse’s back, hip, and neck must be of equal length for them to look in proportion.
Generally, horses tend to come in different sizes and shapes. Younger horses tend to be slightly higher up in their quarters or withers which occurs as there is more growing to do, making them more unsteady on their feet. Many horses won’t be done growing and learning how to properly balance themselves until they are around 5 years old.
Bone Structure
The bone structure of a horse must be in proportion, as we have mentioned above. When choosing a racehorse it is a very good idea to look at a horse from all angles to get a proper idea of what it looks like.
One thing you should look out for is whether the horse has “plenty of bone.” In layman’s terms, this means that the horse has the correct amount of bone for its size. For example, if a racehorse has weak legs but is heavier than the rest of its body, it’s a good idea to turn away from that particular racehorse.
Misshapen Feet
It is also a very good idea to feel the racehorse’s legs for any splints or bumps. Some horses’ feet turn out (or in) slightly or dish in circles during a walk and trot. Again this would indicate additional pressure on their joints which is not an ideal situation for any athlete, let alone a racehorse!
Stride
Pay attention to the horse’s stride. If it moves elegantly around the parade ring, it demonstrates amazing potential at even higher speeds. When it walks, look for confident, even steps and straight legs that don’t twist.
Summary
Many things need to be considered when choosing a racehorse, which could make the whole process feel quite overwhelming. However, it won’t be an impossible task as long as you know exactly what physical and behavioral traits to look out for!
