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Thoroughbred Condition

Having been bred exclusively for racing for some time, the thoroughbred is a bit of a prima donna. However, the breed still shows many of the same traits as its ancestors. Like other members of the family equus cabullus, the thoroughbred is basically a herd animal. This characteristic is most probably a result of the horse's natural habitat. On the ancient grassy plains, where predators lurked everywhere, safety was found by staying close to the pack. If a horse moved ahead of the pack or strayed too far behind, it became easy prey. It is interesting to note that several keen buyers of thoroughbreds will not make a major purchase until viewing a yearling in the field with its peers. These buyers desire to see a youngster who is unafraid to lead the pack, as they consider this trait both a sign of courage and a will to dominate.

The average thoroughbred weighs around 1,000 pounds, and has an almost rigid back. It propels itself on four spindly legs, which must carry weight over a distance of ground while approaching a rate of forty miles an hour. One must realize that the thoroughbred has been shaped by humans to perform in ways for which it was not equipped by nature.

For many thoroughbreds, the start of a race is the most stressful event they encounter. Several have to be schooled over and over again on getting in and then leaving the gate. From a standing position, the horse's hind feet drive backward and downward, while the horse's front end rises off the ground. This initial backward thrust enables it to propel itself forward out of the gate. Should the horse lose its balance or the ground break beneath its feet, an injury is likely.

Assuming a clean break, horse and rider must now navigate their way through a herd of other animals also looking to establish position. For these reasons, horses which are not in good physical CONDITION, often hurt themselves in the starting gate or in the early portion of a race. We are reluctant to excuse poor performances out of the gate. Although some animals are perennially slow starters (this may be due to an early negative experience), horses in proper CONDITION should be able to handle the rigors of the start.

Horses that are feeling good and properly CONDITIONED most often exhibit their improved form in dirt races in the early segments. The ability to run faster in the most stressful part of the race is usually a signal of an improved effort in the near future. How big an improvement is forthcoming depends on a variety of factors, with the major one being the acumen of the trainer and his ability to place the improving horse in a spot where it has a legitimate chance to win. Turf racing involves a different set of dynamics, in which an improvement in finishing ability is often a sign of readiness.

If the horse is placed in a contest where the dynamics of the race allow it to distribute its newfound energy reserves effectively, it will deliver a superior performance, often a lifetime best. Even when the dynamics of the race don't really suit the horse, an improved effort is probably in the cards, often at a generous price.