by Timothy M. Jones, USTA Web Newsroom Correspondent

Springfield, IL — The USTA, in conjunction with host Walker Standardbreds of Sherman, Ill., conducted a yearling preparation seminar on Saturday, July 21.

USTA Outreach administrator Jamie Rucker addresses the seminar, while Ken and Pat Walker look on.

Attendees were provided with an informational packet from USTA Standardbred Outreach administrator Jamie Rucker and demonstrations from Walker weanling and yearling managers, Tracy Walker and Flora Darnell, respectively. Information and tips in the demonstrations varied in topics from weaning youngsters to sale day presentation to potential buyers.

Dr. Ken Walker and his wife, Pat, welcomed participants at the 9:00 a.m. seminar before handing the reins to weanling manager Tracy Walker.

Tracy presented the “Walker way” of “training,” as opposed to “breaking” babies, in order to introduce them to the new experience of fraternizing with humans and a future career on the racetrack.

Each weanling is repetitiously taught halter and “giving to pressure” training, as well as having a human, instead of “Mom” in close contact in the stall. Until these young horses become yearlings they are taught to lead with the aid of a butt rope, stand when tied, and feet are picked up; the latter leading to the farrier’s first visit. In this phase of training, youngsters are handled as such to avoid bad experiences with humans that could very well lead to problems later, plus insuring a safe environment for everyone in and around the barns.

The breeding farm’s yearling manager, Flora Darnell spoke next regarding feeding and first-aid for baby’s bumps, bruises, and cuts. She also detailed the type of grooming equipment and products that are used at the nursery.

Timothy M. Jones photos

Walker Standardbreds yearling manager Flora Darnell and Fox Valley Dame.

With assistance from equine models Fox Valley Journey and Fox Valley Dame, she demonstrated the care and grooming techniques required when yearlings are first brought into the barn after roaming free with their pasture buddies, and also the routine that begins at 6:00 a.m. on sale day to ready the horses for the appearance in the auction ring.

Darnell stressed, that not only does the horse need to look great, but also must be presented in the best possible manner by the handler to a potential buyer. She concluded her portion of the seminar by emphasizing that with the proper marketing and integrity as a seller, it provides the best possible chance of receiving top dollar for the horse.

A question and answer session in which Dr. Walker held court concluded the morning seminar. Walker provided insight to inquiries such as feed types and the necessity of a strict de-worming program.