A New Adventure. A Lucky Gamble.

Today was an amazing adventure. 

But first, let me tell you how this all started. As I mentioned a little while back, my trainer Laurie went to check out some of the Luck horses (ex-racehorses from the cancelled HBO series "Luck" starring Dustin Hoffman) from her long-time contact, Leigh, with Thoroughbred Rehab Center Inc affiliated with Winners Circle Ranch. When she came back, she looked me straight in the eye and told me that I needed to get one. After lots of thought and reflection, and hours of discussion with my friends and hubby, I came to the conclusion that this was a golden opportunity I needed to take and it was time to part ways with Spirit. 

Laurie had picked out a few horses she thought would be good for eventing. Ultimately, she and Leigh hand-selected the horse they thought would be best for me.

Today was the day to meet him for the first time, and bring him home. 

A photo essay. =]

I arrive at the barn and the trailer is hooked to the truck. This is really happening. 

On the road. A gorgeous day.

Made it to the state-of-the-art rehab, layup, and boarding facility. 

The moment of truth. What's the horse like? Will I like him? Will he like me?
YES.
He sees us coming and perks up. He's friendly. He's handsome. We are all giggling like little girls. My trainer's smile here says it all.

The facility is beautiful.

Well, he looks good. Time to get on the trailer and go. That's right, no test ride. No trot-out. First time I see him out of his stall is as he's being led to the trailer to go home with me.

Racehorses are used to large vans. Will he load on a bumper-pull 2 horse?

Yep. No problem.

Back at home, he is calm and alert. Inquisitive but relaxed. We turn him out in the round pen.

He rolls. We decide to ride him.

Trainer, then me, then BFF all get to hop on.
His front shoes came off a week or so ago, and it's clear he is sore.

All tucked into his new home. He likes having a window.

More to come tomorrow. =]  It's been a long day and its late. Technically its tomorrow already. ;]