OTTWA Retraining and Rehoming Program | Checking in on Midas and Amber

Following on from our previous check-in with Sir Sid, Off the Track WA have continued to reach out for updates on previously rehomed horses. This month we caught up with what ‘The Midas Touch’ was doing at his new home with Amber Kidd and her family.

Having learnt of the OTTWA Retraining program through a friend, Amber previously rehomed thoroughbred gelding, Superfine, in November of 2020. Having gone through the process once before, Amber submitted an expression of interest form hoping that a suitable horse may come around.

“It was the easiest process I’ve experienced with purchasing a horse,” Amber recalled. “When my mum expressed interest in purchasing a horse of her own, I knew I’d go through the OTTWA Retraining Program again and wait for a suitable horse to pop up.”

Searching for a horse that was small and quiet for her mother to get back into riding, Amber was happy. When contacted by OTTWA regarding The Midas Touch, a lovely small standardbred gelding ready for rehoming, Amber scheduled a viewing.

“One of the horses we liked was suggested, so we booked a time to view. I had two rides on Midas before deciding to purchase him. I never felt rushed to decide and they encourage you to try a few times before making the decision. Finding the perfect match was important to all parties involved,” said Amber.

Midas was rehomed to Amber in January of 2024, and since then, has been used as a regular trail riding and pony ride mount. He’s had all ages riding him, with varying experience levels, and is described by Amber as an ‘absolute gentleman’.

When asked if the training from the OTTWA Retrainers helped Amber when purchasing Midas, she replied: “Absolutely, the hard work is all done for you! We didn’t have a huge budget and starting an OTT straight off the track on your own takes time and knowledge, which I didn’t have.”

We are thrilled to see Midas has found the perfect home for himself. Midas showed a reluctance to jump or be ridden intensively when in training, so it was important for him to find a quiet home. Thankfully, Amber and her family are more than happy to enjoy the slow life with him.

We thank Amber for her time and wish her all the best with Midas for the future.

Looking to rehome a retired racehorse?

Submit an Expression of Interest