what to look for in an ex-racer?

[HorseGirl18]

i have the chance of buying a retrained ex-racer. i dont have much info on him yet but he has been in his new career (eventing) for quite a few years now. i understand about the fact that most haven't got the best feet and some have stable vices...

but what kind of things do i need to look out for with confirmation, temperament etc...? i guess its the same with any horse but i want to make sure that i dont impulse buy (like usual ) and 'vet' him for my needs!!

any help and suggestions would be great.

to add, he is a flat racer (pros and cons maybe?)

i already have some things in mind:

-tucks feet up well when jumping
-forward going but not 'pull back' type
-uphill paces (or at least, not downhill )
-clean legs
-basic flatwork established (he is 9!)
-alert but not too spooky, attentive and interested
-good temperament

anything to add?

thanks xx

 

[paddi22]

That it passes a thorough vetting. I've a lovely ex racer that is now a field ornament due to issues from his racing days, and he only raced a few years. It's a hard start for them, and they often have issues

 

[kirstyl]

If he has been retrained and eventing for quite a few years, I don't think it's even a consideration that he's an ex racer. Ask all the questions you would of any horse. Hope he's lovely x

 

[superpony]

Soundness would be top of my list. As paddi said a lot have issues. I also have an ex racer who is a lawn mower who wasn't in racing for that long.

What are you hoping to do with the horse? This is important to think about when looking. Good luck

 

[HorseGirl18]

What are you hoping to do with the horse? This is important to think about when looking. Good luck

i'd like to event him to about BE100 so its not too much to ask, but mostly a friendly allrounder. the thing is, i need to be really critical because i buy because i like the look, they have powerful and expressive paces etc.. so i need some pointers written down so i dont get off track

i will be taking my instructor, but i did this last time and ignored some things that she said 'because he was cute' and i dont have room to collect them, if you get what i mean