FIRST-TIMERS GUIDE

WHEN A RACEHORSE RETIRES, WHAT HAPPENS TO IT?

Racehorses are retired from competition once they begin showing signs of slowing down or losing interest in running. Most horses retire when they are between 2 and 6 years old, but horses can race through the age of 12. 

Once they retire, if they are not used for breeding, American Quarter Horses are especially suited to new careers. Most horses enjoy being able to continue working, and the versatile nature of the American Quarter Horse allows it to excel in the competition arena, on a ranch or as a recreational riding horse. 

Ex-racehorses have gone on to compete successfully in events such as steer wrestling, barrel racing, roping and English events such as jumping and driving. Sometimes they return to the track as pony horses, the horses that lead racehorses to the starting gate. Other ex-racers go on to higher callings, such as therapy horses and police mounts.