Nuno Santos knows how it feels to retire from racing and start a second career, having done it himself two years ago. Santos was assistant trainer to Robert Frankel for eight years and galloped Fusaichi Pegasus, Azeri, Ghostzapper, and Ginger Punch. When not at the track, he taught lessons and worked with many off-the-track Thoroughbreds to retrain them for dressage and eventing.
"Working on the track for so many years solidified my love for the breed and my respect for their tremendous ability as athletes." says Santos. Two years ago he left racing and now trains Thoroughbreds for dressage, eventing, and showing and teaches other riders how suited ex-racehorses are to the sporthorse world.
Read: Nuno Santos' Thoroughbred Makeover Blog
Thoroughbred in Training: Thane
Breeding: 2010 dkbbr., g., Medaglia d'Oro - Servalina, by A.P. Indy
Breeder: Dr. John R. Cummins
Career
Starts: 2
Firsts: 0
Seconds: 1
Thirds: 0
Earnings: $21,000
Last Raced: 8/29/12 at Saratoga
Source: Jimmy Bell, President of Darley USA in Lexington, KY and friend of Santos graciously offered to donate Thane, who was ready to be rehomed. "He has a great personality and seems to love being around people--thoroughly enjoying all the fuss being made over him," says Santos in his blog. Each entry praises Thane for his confidence, his demeanor, his willingness to learn. He exemplifies the adage "taking it all in stride." "Thane is quickly becoming a barn favorite, and continues to prove how much he deserves a second chance at a career." Ex-racehorses are the horse world's best-kept secret, one that Steuart Pittman is determined to share.
Watch Thane and Santos stride down the stretch this weekend at Pimlico with the other 26 trainers and their ex-racehorses at the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium.
More information on the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium.
Buy tickets to the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium and receive free general admission to Jim McKay Maryland Million Day, October 19, 2013 at Laurel Park!
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