Two older Alberta OTTBs Silver Essence and Mint having fun!

Admin • February 25, 2025

🌟 OTTBs are more than just racehorses—they’re lifelong athletes, partners, and champions in new arenas! πŸ‡πŸ’– With their heart, versatility, and determination, they shine in second careers like jumping, dressage, eventing, and even therapy work. πŸ†πŸŽ Their journey doesn’t end at the track—it’s just beginning! ✨

πŸ‡βœ¨ Off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) are the ultimate comeback stars! With their athleticism, heart, and resilience, they thrive in second careers like eventing, show jumping, dressage, and even therapy work. πŸ†πŸ’– Their spirit and work ethic make them incredible partners for life, proving that retirement is just the start of something great!


Here’s two Alberta bred older OTTBs having some playful fun in the Mane Attractions arena near Olds where they are now boarded!

 

Silver Essence ( white socks) is Dr. Brenda Abbey's husband Bob Brunt’s 27 year old Alberta bred OTTB .

Essence born in 1998 at Peaceful Valley Stables and purchased by Bob and Dr. Abbey as a yearling from Jack and Linda Johnston. Silver Essence was injured  in his 2nd race as a 3 year old and then had a small knee chip expertly removed by equine surgeon Dr. Greg Andrews of the Moore Veterinary clinic. After 6 months of recovery Essence began retraining in Equitation and Dressage. Bob was coached to Level 3 Dressage by Linda Johnston who also delivered Silver Essence as a foal at Peaceful Valley.


Essence’s longtime paddock buddy Mint was a homebred of former CTHS VP Roy Shelnutt.

Mint was retrained and ridden for years in the Dressage discipline by Roy and since Roy’s passing and belongs to Roy’s daughter Rebecca.

 

Courtesy of Dr. Brenda E. Abbey

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