A new wave of equestrian enthusiasts is trying Thoroughbreds for the first time or returning to the breed after decades away -- but getting started with a new off-track project can be overwhelming. The Makeover Master Class was conceived to give spectators a comprehensive look at what to consider when evaluating prospects and how to approach those early rides off the track.

Format

Three participating trainers will assess the conformation and movement of three horses provided by a non-profit aftercare organization, then work all three horses through a jump chute. Trainers and horses will be matched by random draw, and will break out into individual training sessions. Trainers will have access to round pens, rails, jumps, ground handlers, pony horses, and any other tool or assistance they would typically use to approach initial training sessions and early rides. Commentators will ask questions and narrate the process. Trainers will assess and reflect on their training sessions and entertain questions from the audience.

Meet the 2021 Makeover Master Class:

Horses: 
Provided by Second Stride, Inc. and Secretariat Center

Emcee: Jen Roytz, RRP executive director

Commentators: 

Dorothy Crowell
Two-time Olympian, WEG silver medalist, winner of inaugural 5* Championships at Kentucky, multiple top-ten finishes at the 5* level on OTTBs

Richard Lamb
Chef d'Equipe/Coach of US Pony Club Team at USEF National Pony Jumper Championships, 4* eventing coach and clinician, Level 3 USEA Instructor-certified, young horse trainer with affinity for Thoroughbreds

Trainers:

Michael Alway
Viewpoint Equestrian: young horse starting, re-starting problem horses, OTTBs, behavior issues and solid foundations with an emphasis in dressage and eventing. Past Extreme Mustang Makeover competitor. Horsemanship clinician

Aubrey Graham
Kivu Sporthorses and Training: largely a Thoroughbred training facility for eventing and sales, Makeover veteran

Robin Stang
NRCHA Professional Trainer and AQHA Professional Horseman, lisenced Thoroughbred trainer
Assisted by Krista Hetrick, NRCHA and NCHA money-earning rider

Special thanks to our 2021 Makeover Master Class sponsors!

Presenting sponsor: Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation