Training Thoroughbred Horses

Get the most out of your horse legally and safely

Training Thoroughbred Horses features the methods, secrets, tips, and advice of a Master Horseman. Learn the fundamentals of how to:

• Select and train young horses to produce competitive runners
• Condition each horse individually to achieve its maximum potential
• Place each horse where it can win, on dirt or in the mud, with the right jockey
• Treat minor injuries and prevent them from becoming career-stopping disasters
• Feed simple, wholesome rations that build muscle and power
• Manage your stable so that each horse eats well, trains well, and races well

Commissioned by the reputable Blood-Horse magazine and initially published in 1953, this classic explains the timeless tactics of selecting horses for racing ability, training them to be reliable campaigners, and conditioning and placing them in the right spots.

Burch provides the ingredients of shaping a winning horse. Find out why his techniques and advice continue to be sought out by the most prominent and influential owners.

Preston Burch (1884-1978) won nearly every major race and captured nearly every award, title, and accolade that racing can bestow during his training career, which spanned nearly 70 years. The son of Hall of Fame Trainer William P. Burch, Preston grew up surrounded by the best trainers racing has ever seen and was tutored by James Rowe, Sam Hildreth, and Green B. Morris. From these notable horsemen, Burch studied and adopted the best to create his unique style of training.

Burch became legendary for getting the most out of every horse in his charge. His horses excelled at all distances, set track records, and enjoyed long, productive careers on the racetrack. Burch was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1963.