Our Program
The Secretariat Center is More Than a Rehoming Program—We Focus on Quality Reschooling at the Gold Standard
Ground Training
Our training starts with groundwork. This is where we assess the horse’s understanding of the basics of communication between horse and handler. Personalities are also evaluated during this process.
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Training Rides
Each horse’s athletic ability is evaluated during the initial stages of training. After working on the ground with the horses, our trainer develops an individual training program for each horse. Fundamentals begin with the basic scales of training. As horses advance, training expands to include poles, trail rides, and starting over small jumps and courses.
Training Regime
Our horses are in training 5 to 6 days a week, with each ride designed to prepare them for a successful future with their adopters. Sessions focus on key skills such as straightness, steering, and responsiveness to rider aids. While some arrive with advanced training that we continue to refine, others start from the basics, building a strong foundation for their next career.
Experiences
In addition to their groundwork and under-saddle training, our horses are introduced to obstacles, mounting blocks, cross-ties, and trailering. Our facility features a small cross-country course and path for trail rides. Some even participate in small shows and clinics off-property.
Small Shows and Off-Property Schooling
As horses are excelling in their training, they are entered in local shows and clinics to further develop their skills. We are also fortunate to have access to the incredible Masterson Station Equestrian Trust and participate in the Kentucky 3 Day demos/clinics, where our horses can school over fences, water, ditches, and banks, as well as gain valuable experience riding in open fields. These opportunities help prepare them for a variety of future careers.
Trail Rides
We utilize our 22 acre facility and the Kentucky Horse Park to introduce our retired racehorses to new obstacles like bridges, dogs, traffic, busy horse shows, roads, etc. Trail rides are also a way for our horses to relax and get out of the arena.
Jumping
We love when our horses are able to start jumping during their time with us! Our staff work with these horses to develop their skills and confidence over small obstacles and basic courses in the arena and out in the open.
Cross Country
On our beautiful 22 acres we have a small cross country course that we use to expose our horses to new experiences that allow them to develop new skills outside the arena.