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About Ed Hess
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
Have trained thoroughbreds for 30 odd years. Have been a licensed trainer for that long of time. I continue to train my race horses and thoroughly enjoy every day.

Experience

Experience: Licensed trainer for over 30 yrs. Have had lots of winners in all different types of races - from bottom claimers to top quality stakes winners. My best money winner was Aristocratic Cross (multiple stakes winner). My best claiming horse was Navajo Family, winner of 12 races in one year. I still enjoy racing a modest stable of horses each year.

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Questions Answered By Expert Ed Hess
In Category Horse Racing

Subject	Date Asked

does trainer assigns weight	11/20/2009
Q: who assigns weights on horses? does the trainer or handicapper? ANSWER: HI THE WEIGHTS ARE GIVEN ... A: you get weight allowances. the racing secretary writes the condition book and sets all of the ...
which side a sliding bit to be given	11/19/2009
Q: if suppose a horse is trying to hang in severely in the race.i meant lug in to the inside rail.to ... A: INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. WHEN USED PROPERLY WITH THE FIGURE 8 , IT WILL HELP THE HORSE RUN STRAIGHT. YOU ...
whip phobea	11/19/2009
Q: one of my friends is a jockey.while riding a horse in a race,the horse was inclined to hang in,(his ... A: so if the rider hits the horse during the race, the horse will stop running and give up. you have to ...
Winning a race without a whip	11/16/2009
Q: my neighbour was a jockey.in his late 1980’s , he won on a horse called KANCHEE. In the photo, I ... A: some horses do not need the whip to win and others hate to get hit at anytime in the race. AFTER ...
basic training at riding club	11/16/2009
Q: I’m interested in training racehorses.i don’t have an idea of ground work training.what knowledge I ... A: lots of things to learn before you think of going to the race track to get some work. good luck ...
groundwork training	11/16/2009
Q: may I know what is groundwork training A: learning to walk, trot ,canter. hot walking learning about using the bit, ground driving the horse ...
100 Ways to Improve Your Horse's Schooling	11/16/2009
Q: I heard about this book” 100 Ways to Improve Your Horse's Schooling”, will this book teach me about ... A: DISCIPLINE COMES WITH YOU, YOU WILL NEED TO KNOW WHEN AND HOW TO TREAT THE HORSE WHEN THERE IS A ...
bolting feed	11/14/2009
Q: May I know how to overcome bolting feed in racehorses? A: put the feed tub very high up on the wall or corner so that the horse has to reach and stretch out ...
Training OTTB...and purchasing	11/11/2009
Q: I am about to buy a TB that has been off the track for many years but had no trainer besides in this ... A: but then again it could be because of a problem and he just doesn't feel comfortable using the right ...
horse trainer	11/10/2009
Q: how long does it take to get your license at being a Thoroughbred horse trainer??and where do you ... A: you have to have experience behind you with working with race horses for awhile before you can apply ...
Getting started	11/8/2009
Q: in the summer i want to get a job at a track walking hots, mucking stalls etc. but my question is ... A: well you can always go to the race track near where you live and go to the stable gate and tell the ...
stinky stables	11/5/2009
Q: recently i have visited a stable, its so dirty.and flies when moving around horse head.may i know ... A: THEN PICK IT UP.YOU CAN USE LIME ON THE FLOOR TO KEEP IT SANITARY AFTER YOU CLEAN THE STALL, AND ...
Race Horse	10/31/2009
Q: I galoping him everyday to get him fit. Is this good are should I galop less and what kind of grain ... A: so they do not need all that much training once they are ready and fit to run. galloping between ...
Coming from behind on dirt	10/30/2009
Q: ..Would like first of all to thank for your incredible job!!! I've just started getting interested ... A: i appreciate it very much. well every horse is different and i think it all depends on the horse. ...
Conditioning	10/26/2009
Q: I have two three yr olds tht just started racing at Remington I have run them at ^ and ^ one half ... A: i think you are over training them at this point of time. too much work outs are not needed. the ...
When to our two year old filly again?	10/21/2009
Q: I am a 5% owner in a partnership of 14. We have a 2 yr old filly who won her maiden race $25K, then ... A: YOUR TRAINER SHOULD HAVE A PLAN FOR THE FILLIE AND HAVE A IDEA ABOUT WHEN TO RACE HER AGAIN. YOUR ...
thoroughbred trainer	10/13/2009
Q: I have a thoroughbred that will be 2 in April. We work with him almost everyday (Just Handling) I ... A: go to a race track near where you live and talk to some trainers as they can give you the advise ...
What to look for in a good yerling/two year old	10/8/2009
Q: Can you tell me a bit about racing two year olds (sprinter), when is the best time to break them in, ... A: LINE DRIVING, WALK, TROT, CANTER, GALLOP, THEN THEY TURN THEM OUT TILL THEY ARE A TRUE 2 YR OLD. ...
What to look for in a good yerling/two year old	10/7/2009
Q: Can you tell me a bit about racing two year olds (sprinter), when is the best time to break them in, ... A: a must before you even think of training them. you can always break them to the saddle and basic ...
Traing and Flapping	9/29/2009
Q: I am the owner of two ex racers and live in scotland uk i have just heard about flapping for the ... A: the sooner you start the sooner the horse will come around and start getting fir and ready to run. ...
Traing and Flapping	9/28/2009
Q: I am the owner of two ex racers and live in scotland uk i have just heard about flapping for the ... A: anyhow, you can start training the horse about 1 1/2 miles a day at a regular gallop. i do that for ...
training backing up on speed	9/28/2009
Q: started form the gate in 50.2 first time from gate,second time 52.2 , third work 52.4, forth work ... A: as sometimes that will put his mind on running.also some times horses have problems in the rear end ...
The other horses at the track	9/22/2009
Q: I was just wondering what you call the horses that accompany/pony with the actual race horses on the ... A: warm them up, keep them quiet and just relax the horse before the race. . most pony boys or girls ...
starting in the business	9/1/2009
Q: I am 27 years old. My mom trains dressage horses and I have raised, shown, and trained my own horses ... A: just be honest with the trainer that you will be working for and tell him what kind of experience ...
Starting to race	8/31/2009
Q: Is starting a horse to race in Australia, after the Melbourne Cup, a reasonable time for their first ... A: up and down hills are good too.roping in a sand ring is very good also. i have won many a race right ...
Starting to race	8/27/2009
Q: Is starting a horse to race in Australia, after the Melbourne Cup, a reasonable time for their first ... A: as long as they have been exrayed to make sure that the knees are closed up and not open.2 yr olds ...
Running for purse only	8/22/2009
Q: When they scratch a horse at the gate and it is part of an entry the other horse runs for purse ... A: that would be a schooling or condition race. the trotter usually run those kind of races to get the ...
horse timings	8/20/2009
Q: Sir I am your fan from India mumbai I wanted to know a lower class horse how can give better timing ... A: the classy horse will always beat the cheaper horse and i am not sure exactly why that happens, but ...
Becoming a trainer	8/10/2009
Q: I am 15 and am very interested in the racing industry. I was wondering on how I can get more ... A: try for a farm that has some race horses stabled at, that way you can work with the race horses at ...
speed of horses	8/9/2009
Q: How fast can thoroughbreds and quarter horses be trained to run in mph And how long can they run ... A: BUT THE THOROUGHBRED CAN RUN AT A HIGH SPEED FOR A LONGER DISTANCE. THE BREEDING HAS A LOT TO DO ...
Re-entry into the game	8/9/2009
Q: I am 50yrs old and have been away for awhile to work with family. I am considering taking some ... A: actual working with the horses at a farm is much better then a colleague class. i would hire a ...
Re-entry into the game	8/8/2009
Q: I am 50yrs old and have been away for awhile to work with family. I am considering taking some ... A: you should get a job over a guy with no experience. AFTER ALL you have already worked with horses in ...
Saddle Cloths	8/1/2009
Q: In what year did US racing adopt the different colors for the different post positions over the same ... A: i started to train in the 1960's and i can remember white as the saddle cloth color, but then i can ...
horses	7/29/2009
Q: . could you please tell me about a thoroughbred race horses schedule and how they are trained.. i am ... A: I HAVE TRAINED MANY HORSES AND ENJOYED IT VERY MUCH. THEY HAVE A GREAT LIFE ON THE RACE TRACK. THEY ...
horse training`	7/29/2009
Q: . i have 2 thoroughbred mares and the one i have had for a about a year .. she has been off racing ... A: so maybe she has a problem with her mouth . have you checked her teeth etc ?? .she might have a cut ...
Horse Racing Business	7/6/2009
Q: I'm Maddison and I have always wanted to become a race horse trainer. I was wondering, what college ... A: there is no college that i know of to go to to become a horse trainer. i worked my way up from ...
Jockey and driver earnings	7/6/2009
Q: Standardbred trotter and pacer winning drivers earn five percent of the winning owner's 60% of the ... A: i know that the jockeys always get 10% of the winning purse and the owner gets 60% of the purse. i ...
Question for Ed Hess or anyone else	7/5/2009
Q: I can see that know your stuff on horses, you even said you trained for thirty years. I currently ... A: but i am sure if you would go to the track and look to see if anyone needs any help, you would prob ...
TB doesn't change leads	7/2/2009
Q: Ed, This is a follow-up question. What are the reasons problems in stifle or hock would cause him ... A: then he would not want to change leads, as it would make him very uncomfortable doing so. i have had ...
Racehorse will not change leads	6/30/2009
Q: I have a 5yo gelding who races 5 1/2 or 6 furlong races and does not change leads. He's a decent ... A: he could have problems behind and that is why he is not changing leads for you in the race. you ...
performance regress???	6/30/2009
Q: i have a race horse who did very well in 3 yrs old season when he come in 4 yrs old in next season ... A: worming is always a good thing to do on a Greg basis. checking their teeth is also recommended ...
how to get training to be jockey	6/23/2009
Q: NARA said I dont have anoff experience with horses and I wanted to be come a jockey. I have a little ... A: THERE IS ONE SCHOOL THAT YOU MIGHT TRY OUT TO SEE IF YOU CAN ENROLL THERE. GO TO GREG MACARRION ...
Thoroughbred racing	6/22/2009
Q: Can only thoroughbreds run in races and why did people not want a filly to run in the Belmont ... A: fillies are not usually ruin against the males. it is a sex thing. fillies are usually not as strong ...
swimming	5/12/2009
Q: Does 1 minute of swimming equal to 1 mile of galloping? A: i have swam horses in between races to keep their wind in good condition, but i have never swam them ...
feeding a hyper thoroughbred	4/27/2009
Q: I purchased a throughbred/QH in November and she is very hyper. I need to know what not to feed her ... A: such as a basic low protien sweet feed ,say around 10%--11% . not many oats as they tend to produce ...
How to Buy a Race Horse	4/23/2009
Q: Can you give advice on what a beginner should look for when buying a race horse? A: if you just go to buy a horse yourself, you might wind up buying a pig in a poke, so please take a ...
Layup	4/23/2009
Q: In January I took my filly to a farm for layup hoping to bring her back after 90 days rest (12 ... A: well sometimes a change of area, feed and lack of training can change a horses attitude etc. you ...
horse racing	4/10/2009
Q: I race 4 years and have 2 years horses[as owner]not sure how to knew if my 4 year horse is good 4 ... A: i always gallop a horse 2 miles a day, just gallop, not a open gallop. after 30 days of galloping ...
Where do I go?	4/10/2009
Q: Where do i go to obtain my papers to become a licensed horse trainer? A: well ,you just don't go to get your trainers license. it is not that easy . you must first pass a ...
Whip (stick) rules for jockeys and pink square	4/7/2009
Q: How soon during a race can a jockey start using the whip (stick) in a thoroughbred four and a half ... A: but i think it is 50 feet from the gate and also it may be the starters preference. i am not sure ...
Leg weariness	3/20/2009
Q: We have a 5 year old mare that started racing late . She has won two races both at 5 furlongs. Her ... A: you should have your vet scope her to see if there is anything wrong in her throat. also she might ...
gating	3/19/2009
Q: my question is, what would be a better way to show my horse how to come out fast a straight from ... A: well -- it is up to the horse to break from the gate, but if he or she is breaking slowly, then you ...
Tb Mare w/ breathing problem.	3/16/2009
Q: I recently acquired a tb mare that developed a breathing disorder on the track. she came off as a 3 ... A: if it is just a minor breathing problem , i am sure she will be ok for hunting and jumping, but id ...
Greesy Heel	3/13/2009
Q: I have a thoroughbred mare who has had greesy heel for 3 weeks but does not seem to be improving ... A: horses sometimes do get cracked heels from the snow and that takes time to heal. i had very good ...
Assistant trainers license one more question...	3/12/2009
Q: I have been around horses all of my life.Have been a groom since 2003.From thoroughbreds in ... A: once the trainer see's that you are a good groom, he will give you more jobs around the barn to do. ...
Assistant trainers license	3/12/2009
Q: I have been around horses all of my life.Have been a groom since 2003.From thoroughbreds in ... A: working with and around horses. the trainers test will ask you a lot of questions about the horse, ...
Trainer Licence	3/11/2009
Q: I am new to the state of Utah and I was wondering are you required to have a trainers licence to ... A: to train other peoples horses other then thoroughbred horses, you may not need a license. you can go ...
Trainers compensation	3/9/2009
Q: I understand the 10% winnings across the board, but I thought they get paid on a monthly or daily ... A: yes the trainer charges a fee for each day which covers the feed, training, galloping , barn care ...
Thoroughbred Training	1/23/2009
Q: I am the owner of an 8 yr old ottb mare. She is very smart and learns quickly in the round pen but ... A: but contact a physic and have him or her come to the farm and read the horse for you. they can tell ...
breathing during race	1/21/2009
Q: I have a 3yr old filly with some potential. She raced yesterday in a 1300mtr race.She jumped very ... A: does she run with a tongue tie?? sometime that will help her breath much better. if she is holding ...
racehorse	1/18/2009
Q: i want some thing for my horse to breath properly.thankyou A: i am not sure what you mean by that?? you would have to have him or her vet checked ,to find out why ...
a real good horse just would not run strait?	12/17/2008
Q: Yes years ago I purchases a real nice horse but could not keep him from running through the rail, ... A: we always looked for sore teeth, a sore in the mouth and also lameness which would cause him to try ...
Breeding Question	12/9/2008
Q: I recently took an older TB mare on trade for a nutty quarter horse that wasn't fitting into my ... A: you could always look her up . the Kentucky blood horse would have her records to see if she had any ...
advice on galloping	11/21/2008
Q: hey ed . i have just been reading a reply you had sent somebody a while go .. quoting . GALLOPING ... A: if the horse ran 4th first time out he should improve. i gallop horses but not open gallop just a ...
nervous horse	11/15/2008
Q: i own a race horse who gets very nervous. Would a little wine or beer added to his feed help settle ... A: there are some things you can buy at the tack store for a nervous horse, such as calm and cool or a ...
ex-racehorse only jigs when in group or headed home	11/3/2008
Q: I have owned my TB almost 3 years. We trail ride only and play "parelli" games on the ground. He ... A: and walking and jogging and galloping was a everyday affair to him at the race track. he will always ...
about Dubai	11/2/2008
Q: regarding to your answer about Dubai earlier. The events and competitions in Dubai that mostly ... A: i do think the sheik over there has a excellent breeding program going on for some time now and will ...
Dubai; no1 in raccehorse industry?	11/2/2008
Q: just got your ans from my long list of questions. about Dubai that you said "right now at this time ... A: they are building communities for older rich people to retire in.alos lot of international co. are ...
general questions	11/1/2008
Q: i'm working on group project and would like to know some general information as follow...... General ... A: well i will answer the ones i can for you 1.---hi i think to make sure that the horse that are ...
Blood	10/29/2008
Q: We race thoroughbred horses and we have noticed that when there hermaticrit levels were above 40 ... A: he or she will have advise on what to give the horse for the blood count. yes there are jugs that do ...
horseracing preperation	10/14/2008
Q: . some more advice please.. I am 3 weeks away from running my horse... what advice would you ... A: if they love to gallop and work then a work out 48 hrs out is a good idea. if they are a a hard to ...
rescued thorobred thin	10/11/2008
Q: Snickers is a rescued thorobred. He is thin however, He is 16.2 hands and weighs about 950 #'s His ... A: i would add whole corn to his diet. there is probably corn in your horse feed already, but probably ...
rescued thorobred thin	10/11/2008
Q: Snickers is a rescued thorobred. He is thin however, He is 16.2 hands and weighs about 950 #'s His ... A: if you had a vet check, and his teeth floated ,then a good feeding program will bring him around. i ...
advice on galloping	9/23/2008
Q: hey ed . i have just been reading a reply you had sent somebody a while go .. quoting . GALLOPING ... A: then you decide to put some fast work outs in the horse . like a 3 furlong work out , either from ...
advice on galloping	9/22/2008
Q: hey ed . i have just been reading a reply you had sent somebody a while go .. quoting . GALLOPING ... A: just a good gallop. you don't want to sour up a horse by open galloping him or her all the time. i ...
urgent filly race stakes	9/11/2008
Q: Pat kaut this saturday works 7 furlong its very tired, 30 september she will race a stakes in 7 ... A: maybe the 7 fur is a bit too long for her to run. ok, a slow 1 1/2 mile gallop each day ,if she is ...
urgent filly race stakes	9/10/2008
Q: Pat kaut this saturday works 7 furlong its very tired, 30 september she will race a stakes in 7 ... A: have you checked her breathing??? not knowing your fillie. it would be hard to tell you why she is ...
ex racehorse mare	9/9/2008
Q: i recently purchased a Thoroughbred mare named chanson de soleil she got off racing in 2000 and had ... A: it had some beet pulp etc. just ask your feed store if they have anything like that. they will tell ...
ex racehorse mare	9/8/2008
Q: i recently purchased a Thoroughbred mare named chanson de soleil she got off racing in 2000 and had ... A: so she will always have that urge to race, AFTER ALL she was born to run !! you can watch the amount ...
Horse trainers	8/1/2008
Q: I have a horse 6 yrs old, winner of over $350,000 I would like to make a change in trainers. Current ... A: well you will have to go to your present trainer and tell him that you are going to change trainers ...
My Thoroughbred	7/30/2008
Q: Ed: I purchased a 12 yr old thoroughbred that was pulled from the track after an injury 8 years ago ... A: when had the horses on the farm resting, i would turn them out all day and bring them in and feed ...
SWIMMING 2 YR OLDS	7/24/2008
Q: ED, DO YOU THINK SWIMMING A TWO YEAR OLD FILLY INTO 3/8TH MILE SHAPE IS BETTER THAN JUST WORKING ... A: i have taken older sore horses and have put them in a swimming poodle to get them fit without the ...
Starting a young one	7/20/2008
Q: I have a coming 2 yr old that is by a Son of Secretariat and out of a Marquetry daughter. He is ... A: you might decide to send him to a very well known training center, with a great reputation for ...
i don't know where his tattoo # is on his papers...	7/6/2008
Q: i know this must seem like a stupid question, but i recently got an OTTB, and i can't figure out ... A: usually there are no letters and then some numbers. it should be very clear on the foal paapers ...
horse racing	6/24/2008
Q: first of i have the horses and barn and roundpin. all i need to now is if its the right horse and ... A: he will have to have some gate works and get a starting gate card in order to start in a race. i ...
want to learn more on being a jockey	6/11/2008
Q: how old is to old to be a jockey for racing horses when I was in high scool I was a jockey and loved ... A: but i think you would be better off going to a horse training farm and learn to exercise horses. ...
entering a race	6/6/2008
Q: I'm writing a play where a character grew up on a horse farm. I need an anectdote where he describes ... A: you go to the condition book for the track you are racing at and look for the day you want to run . ...
ponying	5/21/2008
Q: A race track just opened near our house..and I have always had this idea that ponying would be a ... A: learning to pony race horses. trainers always need pony boys and girls to pony the race horses that ...
Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont question	5/17/2008
Q: Just wondering.. Why are the horses who are in the Kentucky Derby not in the Preakness, except for ... A: it is always up to the trainer and owners to decide where and when to run their horses next. so ,if ...
weight..	5/14/2008
Q: . i am a track rider and i am around 100kg.. in your opinion do you thing this would be improving ... A: well i have used exercise boys weighing up to 175lbs and as long as the horses were sound , i could ...
OTTB Re-training	4/14/2008
Q: I am currently riding an extremely friendly ottb. This gelding tries his hardest when riding and can ... A: IT WAS IN NEW ENGLAND AND UP AND DOWN THE EASTERN SEABOARD . I DO NOT RECOGNIZE AND OF THE NAMES ...
OTTB Re-training	4/13/2008
Q: I am currently riding an extremely friendly ottb. This gelding tries his hardest when riding and can ... A: you could add full cup blinkers to keep from seeing too much and also you can stuff his ears with ...
SOLE PROPRIETOR OR PARTNERSHIP	4/4/2008
Q: ED, I HAVE A 2YR OLD COLT, GETTING CLOSE TO RACE. IF I HAVE SOME FRIENDS PUT UP A LITTLE MONEY TO ... A: especially with the racing commission. even though it is a lot of paper work etc. everyone ...
horse racing	3/17/2008
Q: A: there is a lot to learn about how to train a race horse to race. it would take about 3 months of ...
valuation	3/14/2008
Q: i would like to have a rough estimate for a foal. i am currently a part owner of a mare named, ... A: you can look up the mare and see if she has produced any other foals that have made the races and ...
is it the sire or the dam?	3/6/2008
Q: My filly has a strong sire line and a so so dam line - do you have an opinion about whether or not a ... A: when i would look to buy a 2 yr old ,i would always look at the dams produce record, to see how many ...
starting on farm getting to track	2/19/2008
Q: I have ben a breeder of show horses for over 20 years, but I am new (6Yrs.)to race horses. I ... A: 30 days of galloping about 1 MILE to 1 1/2 MILE a day. then another 30 days of galloping with a ...
horse readers	1/2/2008
Q: Ive been going thru the questions you answer. You refer to psychics or readers. Can you tell me more ... A: JUST LOOK IN THE ADS TILL YOU COME UP WITH ONE IN YOUR AREA THEN YOU CAN CALL THEM AND TELL THEM ...
exercise Jockey	12/24/2007
Q: I have been riding Saddlebreds for years, but I am sort of interested in Thoughbreds. Is there any ... A: AS LONG AS YOU HAVE HAD EXPERIENCE RIDING HORSES BEFORE , WHICH YOU DO HAVE. THERE ARE MANY ...
Papers	12/18/2007
Q: I have horses that have been born at home how do I get any papers of proof of ownership? If I buy a ... A: go online and send them a e-mail TO SEE ABOUT THE PAPERS. if you buy a horse you WILL need a bill ...
Horseracing	12/16/2007
Q: I have a 2 year old that has raced twice 6 furlongs in maiden spec weight. Both races were the same ... A: one could be he is bleeding, but you can scope him to see if there is any blood in his lungs, or if ...
Retraining an OTTB	11/27/2007
Q: Basiclly 3 months ago I bought myself an OTTB and have been in the process of retraining him but the ... A: THEN HE WILL HAVE HIS MIND ALREADY SET ON CERTAIN THINGS. IT WAS GOOD THAT YOU DID CHECK HIS TEETH ...
Prime age for race horses	11/26/2007
Q: We are thinking of buying my 88 year old father a share in a race horse for a year. I know ... A: so people have a tendency to buy 2 yr olds to race, but a 2 yr old comes up with a lot of problems, ...
4 year old with back injury?	11/21/2007
Q: my new farrier pointed out to me today that my horse may have an old injury from her racing days ... A: there are so many things it could be ,and it might be hard to pin point the injury, but. i always ...
Is my horse ready for a 6 furlong race.	11/15/2007
Q: I have a two year old in training . He has 125 days of galloping 1.5 and 2 miles a day over the ... A: i had a big 2 yr old who was a very lazy colt and he needed a 3/4 mile work before he ran the 6 fur ...
Rider Exercises	11/12/2007
Q: Howdy Ed! First, let me thank you for your time and knowledge you and others share on this site. ... A: but reg work with the horses, galloping every day and using your leg mussels will also help keep you ...
Trainers license	10/26/2007
Q: How does one go about getting a trainers license in NY state? Thank you. A: you should have at least a couple years of experience before you try to take the test. work for a ...
Stumbles in gallop, not breezes	10/24/2007
Q: My 2 yo filly recently stumbled and fell during a routine gallop. She was not injured. Her works ... A: just a off and on thing with some horses. you can always have the vet check her back end out, to ...
lasix and workouts	10/2/2007
Q: Ed, We have just claimed a horse for the second time. We have a question regarding the the use of ... A: as it can dehydrate the horse . lasix is a racing medication that is used to prevent bleeding and ...
lasix and workouts	10/2/2007
Q: Ed, We have just claimed a horse for the second time. We have a question regarding the the use of ... A: unless you are worried about the horse bleeding during the actual worlout. you will use lasix on the ...
BULGING SHINS	9/18/2007
Q: WE ARE LOOKING TO BUY A 2 YR OLD MALE AS A RACE HORSE. HE HAS LARGE BUMPS ON HIS ANKLES. THE OWNER ... A: but your questions asks me about a bump on his ankle???. if he has a bump or bumps on each shin, ...
pros of horse racing	9/16/2007
Q: I'm a senior at my high school and working on a project that must be debatable! I chose "Horse ... A: i have trained and been around race horses and the thoroughbred business for over 30 years and have ...
injuries	9/12/2007
Q: What kind of injuries are associated with starting race horses too young? A: THEY MUST BE COMPLETELY CLOSED BEFORE YOU PUT THEM INTO TRAINING.WIND PROBLEMS, BUCKED SHINS , ...
bone chip	9/5/2007
Q: I have a chance to purchase a thoroughbred horse that has a bone chip. It is a horse will come from ... A: your vet will be able to tell you as soon as he see's the x-rays. i have had plenty of race horses ...
mucous in lungs	8/28/2007
Q: I have a 5 year old thoroughbred mare who ran a cracker first time out this year and finished ... A: we would put them on bactrim. 20 pills a day for 5 days until the 100 pills were given to the ...
question about purse money	8/27/2007
Q: i am writing a report on thoroughbred horse racing for a class and i was wondering about purse ... A: THE PURSE IS DIVIDED UP FOR THE FIRST 6 FINISHERS. SOMETHING LIKE 60% FOR FIRST , 20% FOR ...
Ex racehorse-kicking	8/27/2007
Q: I have a 9 year old Thoroughbred that raced until he was 5. He has a number of 'quirks' including ... A: it comes in a syringe type container. you give it to the horse a couple of hours before you intend ...
Horse Problem	8/14/2007
Q: I have a 3 yr old colt that has shown alot of promise. He had 2 starts as a 2 yr old both in the ... A: sometimes that will help, then again if you have used full cup blinkers on him and he is doing what ...
horse problem	8/7/2007
Q: here in locally meets and when he leaves the gates he thows his head up and run that way down the ... A: if all else fails then have a physic come to your barn and read the horse for you. they can find ...
swimming tb's	7/24/2007
Q: Would you say that swimming a tb for about 5 to six minutes helps in the conditioning, and how often ... A: but if you swim a horse a lot and do not gallop him or her ,then the horse is not going to run well. ...
bowed tendon	7/24/2007
Q: I just recently got a 3 year old thoroughbred that is off the track. he bowed his tendon last year, ... A: I HAVE HAD MANY BOWED HORSES AND RACED THEM WITH MUCH LUCK. A LOW BOW IS THE BEST ONE TO HAVE, AS IT ...
Picking and choosing race entries	7/19/2007
Q: Ive recently become interested in horse racing in the UK and like to think that iv acquired a decent ... A: like a turf race over a dirt race and then weather the horse likes the off going etc. then they look ...
saucer fracture	7/10/2007
Q: Mr. Hess i have a fillie that just turn three year old and she develop a backed shins three months ... A: as for your new question----well the saucer fracture is actually in the shin bone, thus when a horse ...
saucer fracture	7/8/2007
Q: Mr. Hess i have a fillie that just turn three year old and she develop a backed shins three months ... A: in the past years when i raced at the race tracks and we had a horse with a saucer fracture, we ...
Stumbling out of gate	6/27/2007
Q: We purchased a 3 year old thoroughbred in Feb of this year. He has been racing since Nov 06. After ... A: your horse was racing when your trainer noticed some lameness,then you had his knees operated on and ...
Stumbling out of gate	6/27/2007
Q: We purchased a 3 year old thoroughbred in Feb of this year. He has been racing since Nov 06. After ... A: you could again have him checked by a vet for the back end problems, that could cause him to stubble ...
Ex-Racehorse search	6/24/2007
Q: I'm thinking about picking up another ex racehorse for retraining but have moved to Vancouver, ... A: and ask if anyone has a race horse for sale at this time. i am sure you will find a horse for sale, ...
Buying a Thoroughbred	6/22/2007
Q: I have just bought a 6 year old mare, just off the track. I want to 'Try' bring it around to my way ... A: well any horse you buy, most likely has it's own personality by now. she is already trained to ...
crosscantering	6/20/2007
Q: my two year old is cross cantering at the track have shoes on........do you have any reasons or ... A: PROB NEEDS TO GET MORE TRAINING AS HE OR SHE WILL GET BETTER WITH THE LONG SLOW GALLOPS ETC. THE ...
Race horses	6/20/2007
Q: How old does a horse have to be before it can race? In good health, how long can they race? What is ... A: i had horses racing ae 13 yrs of age in very good health. we had a pony who worked on the race track ...
Bloodhorse	6/12/2007
Q: I just bought a horse, but I don't know primary area of activity, or what it does best. I was ... A: well i hope you are talking about a thoroughbred horse, but anyhow--there are blood stock books that ...
Racehorses Right Lead	6/9/2007
Q: A commentator on TV discussing a race said that the right lead is faster than the left coming down ... A: as a trainer i have never been told that one lead is faster then the other by anyone. i know the ...
horses	6/8/2007
Q: how do i become a rider A: AFTER SOME TIME OF RIDING YOU SHOULD GO TO A HORSE FARM THAT BREAKS AND TRAINS THE RACE HORSES AND ...
Finding a licensed groom	6/7/2007
Q: I have been a thoroughbred racehorse owner for almost 6 years. Recently, I passed my trainers exam ... A: then i would expect you to do all of the work on the horse. if and when you get ready to run the ...
Buck Shin and Saucer Fracture	5/30/2007
Q: I recently bought into a syndicate for a 2 year old thoroughbred. It is my first purchase and my ... A: well a saucer fracture is not a good fracture as it can continue off in any direction and cause a ...
preparation of racehorse for trainer	5/29/2007
Q: we are training horses of diferent kinds with 20 years of experience but now for the first time have ... A: WELL AS LONG AS THE HORSE IS GOING TO THE RACE HORSE TRAINER, THE TRAINER WILL WANT TO TRAIN THE ...
preparation of racehorse for trainer	5/29/2007
Q: we are training horses of diferent kinds with 20 years of experience but now for the first time have ... A: HORSES AT THE TRACK WALK EVERY DAY AFTER THEY GALLOP AND COOL THEM OUT FOR 30 MINS. TRAIN HIM TO ...
Lead changes	5/23/2007
Q: I read a reply to a question about leads. But I still don't know what is being changed when a horse ... A: he leaves the starting gate on hid right lead then when the turn come up, he changes to the left ...
Injured Horse	5/22/2007
Q: love your website. We claimed a thoroughbred about a year ago. He was 6 years old at the time of ... A: you should have your vet examine the horse before you think of putting him back into training, that ...
2 y/o colt w/o open knees.	5/11/2007
Q: I've invested in a 2 y/o colt nicely breed on both sides. At this point in time, he's a young 2. I ... A: i would not think of racing him if his knees are not completely closed. remember that open knees ...
Considering a partnership	5/3/2007
Q: I am considering investing in racehorse partnerships and am looking for advice regarding what to ... A: but that is just my advise. if you really want to own a trace horse then buy one for yourself and ...
rude racer	5/3/2007
Q: I just bought a very rude tb gelding off the track. he is a real looker but a real monster when it ... A: i would treat him with lots of kindness and plenty of treats. every time you do anything with him ...
Starting Gate	4/29/2007
Q: I have a 3yo filly who has potential but has a problem coming out of the gate and coming out ... A: i have never seen or heard of one. i always would change to or from blinkers to see if that would ...
training	4/12/2007
Q: BROKE, CONDITIONING CAN YOU ANSWER MY QUESTION PLEASE A: if the horse has never raced then he wil have to have a lot of training to be sure he knows what to ...
Traditional racehorse conditioning/training	4/11/2007
Q: What are some of the traditional conditioning/training methods that are used for a racehorse? A: start by training at least 3 months before a race 30 days of galloping then 30 days of galloping but ...
Training a Horse	2/14/2007
Q: I have a year old Quarter/Throughbred horse that I want to train for races. The colt is very gentle ... A: you can break him to the saddle ,bridle and teach him to long line or ground drive to get use to the ...
race horse questions	2/6/2007
Q: My name Is Emily. I would like to know how to get started with the horse racing bisiness? I would ... A: well to get started in the race horse buisness you will have a undying love for the horse. if you ...
Starting gate training	1/23/2007
Q: How do you train a horse to go into, behave in, and depart correctly from the starting gate? My ... A: well most horses do accept the starting gate with little or no problem. he or she will have to have ...
Should I keep a foal to race?	11/25/2006
Q: I breed TBs and have a filly who is by Rayja Sabha out of I'm a Plum Cake. The sire has good ... A: well i have trained horses for over 30 years now and have never bred any horses myself. i do know ...
Standardbred Race Horses	10/28/2006
Q: I recently rescued a 4yr old Standardbred Race Horse. What type of training techniques are used to ... A: AS I WAS A THORUGHBRED HORSE TRAINER FOR OVER 30 YEARS, BUT THEY TRAIN MUCH MORE THEN WE DO A ...
Training the Profession	10/16/2006
Q: Hess, I am a teenager currently raising racing thoroughbreds. I love it, these horse are my ... A: you already sound very positive in becoming a professional horse trainer to me. it is a labor of ...
University	10/10/2006
Q: Were can i get a degree in thoughbred training/ racing? A: there are schools that you can a degree in horemanship, or get a license in teaching riding etc. if ...
lead	10/9/2006
Q: How can you tell when a horse changes lead? I have heard that if they don't change lead that it ... A: every horse does change his or hers leads during a race. they always start off on the right lead ...
Race	9/11/2006
Q: Have ran Filly 6-6.5 furlongs finishing 5th....comes like a train at the end of each race. Works ... A: IF THEY WORK WELL IN THE AM AND RUN FROM OFF THE PACVE IN THHE AFTERNOON THEN I WOULD LOOK FOR A ...
throughbred training	9/6/2006
Q: I have a 5 year old maiden mare here in CA. she ran 7 furlongs on 8/25 and ran a great race ... A: i had a fillie that neede all the training to get her to run and had another fillie that didn't take ...
buying a race horse	8/16/2006
Q: when buying a 2 year old horse to have trained for the races what are key things to know before ... A: then look at his knees, make sure they are closed, because if you train a 2 yr old with open knees, ...
Barrel Racing	8/11/2006
Q: I realize you are an expert of training race horses and this may not be something you are involved ... A: YOU MAY WANT TO HAVE A TOOTH FERRY CHECK HIS TEETH FOR YOU. HE MIGHT HAVE A PROBLEM WITH A TOOTH AND ...
training a young horse	8/3/2006
Q: last year i broke in my own appaloosa and he is going resonably well. i worked at a few racing ... A: as long as he or she is broke to walk trot and canter and gallop, then the trainer can start ...
sesamoid ligament	7/28/2006
Q: can a trotting horse fully recover from a strained sesamoid ligament with a descent spell A: if the problem is in the back leg, it seems to heal better . if it is in the front leg then it is ...
About racing shoes	7/20/2006
Q: Hess: When did aluminum racing plates start in general use versus steel plates? Also, how much ... A: i used steel shoes on a horse with shelley feet and aluminum on all others. the steel shoes do weigh ...
Barrel Racing	7/19/2006
Q: I have a great horse and a good friend that is willing to teach me to barrel race. She says that the ... A: i am sure you will be ok for the compition in oct. you will just have to go and get on that horse ...
feeding a thoroughbred horse	7/3/2006
Q: i just got a thoroughbred horse a couple days ago and i am not sure what kind of feed it needs..the ... A: IT IS ALWAYS BEST TO HAVE A VET LOOK AT HER FIRST,JUST INCASE SHE HAS SOMETHING REALY WRONG WITH ...
getting training experience	7/2/2006
Q: I have a small stable in North Carolina and have been a Dressage instructor, breeder, competitor for ... A: if you can go to a race track near you and find a trainer that needs a good assistant then that is ...
Ponying	6/19/2006
Q: I want to pony at my local race track and Im pretty sure that i have the riding capabilities, but ... A: well you have to have a nice easy going horse to use. they have to put up with a lot of abuse from ...
Finishing a colt	6/4/2006
Q: I have trained jumpers and am new to the racing world. I am conditioning a 2yr old filly and have ... A: ! i always paint their shins with a good iodine paint to keep then sound. also the teeth might be ...
colleges	6/2/2006
Q: What would be a good college I could go to, to learn on how to become a good horse jockey? I would ... A: YOU WOULD HAVE TO START BY TAKING RIDING LESSONS AND LEARN HOW TO HANDLE THE REINS AND HOW TO KEEP ...
Horse Racing	5/28/2006
Q: I was wondering if you could help me out. Ok. I want to become a outrider or a pony person you know ... A: your pony will have to take a lot of abuse from the race horses, pushing him around, poss biting ...
What happens when a horse fails a drug test?	5/24/2006
Q: If a winner's urine test comes up positive for a drug, what happens next? Is the trainer called to a ... A: then the trainer will get suspended for a period of time and he or she may have to also pay a fine. ...
how to get started	5/22/2006
Q: I am very new to the sport in general and I really want to get start in it. How do I go about ... A: I WILL START BY SAYING THAT MY COMPUTER IS NOT TAKING THE WEB BROWSER SO THAT IS WHY I AM LATE ...
run for purse money only	5/15/2006
Q: what causes a situation where there is a horse in a race but there is no betting on him, he is only ... A: WELL I HAVE BEEN AROUND RACE TRACKS FOR MANY YEARS AND HAVE NEVER SEEN WHAT YOU ARE ASKING ABOUT.IF ...
2 yr thoroughbred height	5/12/2006
Q: I have a 2yr old T/BRED AND HE IS FLAT BRED I WAS WONDERING WHAT WOULD THE AVERAGE SIZE FOR A 2YR ... A: is ,are there knee's completly closed ???? then and only then would i ever even think of puting ...
I read your answer to the...	5/12/2006
Q: I read your answer to the question of "Lead Changes" dated 11/25/2005. Where a horse starts off on ... A: they always stat off the race on their tight lead. if a horse is on his or hers left lead going into ...
training fees	5/11/2006
Q: It's a long ugly story. I am trying to find out how to determine the expenses for training at least ... A: galloping ,leg work, walking, grooming . the onwner had to pay extra for the shoeing--- all vet ...
Injuries	5/11/2006
Q: I am doing my masters degree in Veterinary physiotherapy. I am a South African physio currently ... A: race horses get a number of injuries that the dogs do not get. a bad conformation horse may race and ...
lead changes	3/11/2006
Q: A while back you answered a question on lead changes in race horses. You mentioned that many horses ... A: we start them out in pairs or groups to teach them the closeness in bumping and getting jostled ...
new to racing	2/19/2006
Q: So, do they tend to spook while they are galloping? or are they usually too busy running? I know ... A: if you ride 2 year old you will have a lot of problems with them as they are babies and will have to ...
new to racing	2/19/2006
Q: I am 21 and been riding show horses since I was 7. I consider myself a well experienced rider in the ... A: being a exercise rider on a thourghbred race horse is like night day . especially breaking and ...
stud chasing pregnant mare	2/11/2006
Q: I HAVE A FOUR YEAR OLD STUD THAT HAS BEEN IN A PEN NOT FAR FROM MY MARE THAT SHOULD FOAL WITHIN A ... A: well i haven't had too many studs ,unless they were stabled at the race track in training to race , ...
Hip problem	2/9/2006
Q: We have a 21 yr old Standardbred gelding, never raced up until a year ago he was sound. Don't know ... A: THERE IS A MUSSEL THAT IS ON THE SIDE OF THE HIP IN THE CENTER THE VET WILL KNOW WHICH ONE IT IS ...
Horse breeding	12/16/2005
Q: In your professional onpinion which of the mating inducing supplements has the minimum ocurrence of ... A: THERE ARE ALL KINDS OF THINGS YOUR VET CAN DO TO BRING A MARE INTO HEAT ETC. AND YOU CAN HAVE YOUR ...
Lead Changes	11/25/2005
Q: I asked this question a couple of years ago and the answer is no longer available. I think you told ... A: . they always start off on the right lead then when they go into the turn . they have to go onto ...
what percentage do jocks and trainers get?	11/23/2004
Q: Mr. Hess, I have always wondered how jockeys and trainers were paid. Is it percentage based or set ... A: jockeys also work on %10 on the win only then they get a set fee for riding 2nd--3rd-- hope that ...
equine question...racetrack conditions	11/21/2004
Q: I am sorry to bother you again, but I have another inquiry to make. What is the main factor that ... A: a lot of times the horse will change his lead at the wrong time in the race causing more presure on ...
equine question...racetrack conditions	11/20/2004
Q: I am currently doing a research project, and I need some answers from experts. Thank you if you are ... A: I HAVE TRAINED FOR OVER 30 YEARS AND HAVE HAD SOME HORSES BREAK DOWN ON ALL KINDS OF DIFFERENT ...
Dear Ed.Iwould like to know...	10/21/2004
Q: Iwould like to know if in your opinion that racehorses trained at a training center are at a ... A: i have also trained out of my back yard , out of a 60 foot sand roping ring. it really depends on ...
Becoming a trainer	8/23/2004
Q: I'm sorry I keep e-mailing you but I have so many questions I keep thinking of later and nobody else ... A: WELL I KNEW A FEW TRAINERS THAT KEPT THERE HORSES AT A FARM I WORKED ON IN THE WINTER. THEY LAID UP ...
Becoming a trainer	8/23/2004
Q: ------------------------- Followup Question - Ed, Thank you for answering my question about ... A: and you won't get too much experience in the 4 year college course. you have to do it on your own ...
Becoming a trainer	8/22/2004
Q: I am a student in high school and I really love training my 2 year old morgan cross. I have always ... A: you will have your get your education by going to the race track and getting a job walking horses, ...
Changing the Lead & Saving Ground	7/7/2004
Q: Two commonly used terms neither of which are clear to me are "Changing the lead" and "Saving ... A: when they break from the gate, the horse should be on it's right lead, when they make the turn for ...
Stewart Elliot riding at Belmont '04	6/6/2004
Q: When Smarty Jones slowed down near the end of the final straight-away, he also turned his head a bit ... A: he prob did it for the horses benefit. he knows that horse good so he peob did that for a reason. ...
getting into the business	6/2/2004
Q: Mr. Hess, I have a great love of horses and have always wanted to be a thoroughbred trainer. How ... A: thn you will become a trainer no matter how or what it takes to be one. i would find work wit a ...
FINDING A TRAINER WHO WILL ALSO BE PART OWNER	5/28/2004
Q: HOW CAN I FIND A TRAINER WHO WILL ALSO BE 1/2 OWNER? TO ME IT SEEMS IF THE TRAINER IS PART OWNER ... A: as a trainer i much prefer to train for the owners, and not to get involved in a percentage in the ...
training	5/3/2004
Q: mr hess, i have talked to you before and you had told me that you need to have a good schedual for ... A: but i work the horse every week starting at 3/8 mile work-- next week-- then a 1.2 mile work next ...
Jockey's Riding Technique	5/2/2004
Q: Question on the Kentucky Derby - the jockey on Smarty Jones at the end of the race was really moving ... A: he was scrubbing , what i mean is that he was pushing the horse to his full stride lots of jockeys ...
Off the track racer horse breaking habits	4/30/2004
Q: Three weeks ago I purchased a horse off the track who had spent the past 10 months in his stall ... A: i alwyas have te too ferry do my horses every 6 months, because of caps, wolf teeth etc. he may ...
training thoroughbreds	4/18/2004
Q: Mr Hess, my name is amanda welch and iam doing a term paper on the history of horse racing. I ... A: WELL I CAN GIVE YOU A FEW POINTERS , BUT THERE IS A LOT TO TRAINING HORSES TO REMEMBER. THERE HAS TO ...

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