We all know OTTBs have the reputation of being firecrackers that excel at events like eventing and jumpers, but today’s feature is a little more calm… and well, forward and straight! Val from Calm, Forward, and Straight is a super handsome OTTB.

What is his/her registered name? Sinister WInd – a hateful name, but weirdly appropriate since we live on a hurricane prone island.

Lineage? Buckpasser, Native Dancer, Tom Fool and Man O’ War through War Admiral. Sadly the nearest famous relative is Foolish Pleasure, winner of the ill-fated match race where Ruffian broke down.

Did your OTTB race? No race record I can find, but I know he trained at the track. Both fronts have pin firing scars, so I suspect at some point he bowed tendons or popped major splints. More relevant – he’s very energy conservant… (l-a-z-y)

What do you do now with them? Val came to me with a hip injury that ended his jumping career, so my main goal is to keep him sound and fit while we learn dressage. For the last couple of years, we’ve been doing this on our own. There are no trainers closer than 5 – 6 hours away, so it’s the occasional
road trip to a clinic, books and reviewing video for now.

If your OTTB was a musician, who would they be? Well, not sure about a musician. Val Kilmer (Tombstone version) is the inspiration for Val’s name so – embarrassing, but there you go.

Your OTTB is on a desert horsey island. He/she can bring three items – what are they? Snack, treats and delicious things that go in his mouth.

Your OTTB is deathly afraid of… The invader kitties that strut through the back of his paddock. (the nerve of them) He’s not such a scaredy cat, but he definitely will melt down
if physically uncomfortable in the slightest. A very princess and the pea kind of guy.

Your OTTB is really brave about… Phe (formerly) death dealing row of black plastic trash bins. They are boring now. (thanks to clicker + treats)

If your OTTB could change one thing about his environment or training, what would it be? A friend or two. Of the lady horse variety.

How would your OTTB introduce themselves to a new herd of horses? Kiss up to the alfa gelding, avoid the second in command and figure out the way into the mare’s pasture. Mad social skills on this one.

And finally, your OTTB makes you proud every day because… He’s such a sweet horse. He is a great communicator, and has improved my riding and horsemanship immensely. He doesn’t make things easy – but he’s honest.

He gives you what you ask for. A super ambassador for OTTBs!

Want to submit your OTTB to be featured on this blog? e-mail me answers to this set of interview questions and some pictures to be featured, and maybe next time you check She Moved to Texas your horse will be featured as the OTTB Spotlight of the week!

You may also like:

OTTB Spotlight – Viper OTTB Spotlight – Carlos OTTB Spotlight – Henry OTTB Spotlight – Keller OTTB Spotlight – Rozzy Ridge