beginning training

Question
I was recently offered a position to train race horses.   The age of these horses range from 2-5.  They were just recently broke the old fashion "rodeo" way, and have no idea what is expected of them.  My question is where should I start with these horses?  I was raised around horses and trained a foal I had, but I began from day one with imprinting him and he was used for pleasure only. The owner of these horses has a track that I will be using during the training but I'm not just going to jump on the back of a "wild" horse and see how fast they can go. What are some simple guidelines I can use when I start working with these horses?

Answer
Hi Amanda:

You would be much-better served by asking a licensed trainer (there are several on this site) about the best way to proceed; my expertise in this area is limited.  I believe you have a good handle on the situation, though, and your cautious approach appears to be  justified.  I would start as if the horses had never been broken (lunge them), and then you can steadily and quickly move forward, if the horses are more advanced than advertised.

Good Luck,

Brad Adler
www.superthoroughbred.com