CLASSY CANDIDATE | Old Reliable and Beloved Jimbo

This 2004 Standardbred gelding was born December 31st. Almost born in 2005, Classy Candidate began his racing career in 2007 with Chris Robinson. Racing for seven years, Classy Candidate retired from racing in 2014 with 191 starts and 13 wins. At 20 years old, Classy Candidate has lived a long off the track career.

Purchased by Tayla Brown in 2023 from Sherri Wrightman, ‘Jimbo’ is the first Standardbred Tayla has ever owned.

“Before buying him, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the breed. However, Jimbo has completely changed my entire view of Standardbreds.”

Tayla describes Jimbo as an absolute saint. Bought as a horse for her mum to return to riding with, Tayla has found Jimbo to be the perfect horse, who truly takes care for his riders. Jimbo loves being pampered, and has taken on the role of the family mount whenever friends and family visit. He enjoys beach trips, and takes life at a slower pace. Jimbo is a reliable horse to show beginners the ropes of riding and handling horses.

“After losing my heart horse in October of 2023, Jimbo has definitely helped me fall back in love with the sport. Just being able to sit on him bareback, or read a book while he grazes is our biggest achievement so far.”

At 20, Jimbo continues to enjoy attending the beach and offering trail rides and pony rides. Tayla hopes to take him out to in-hand shows. Most importantly, Tayla hopes for Jimbo to have many more years with her family.

OTTWA wish Jimbo and Tayla all the best for their future together. Jimbo is the perfect example of the kind, reliable nature of a Standardbred horse. A wonderful breed for all equestrian levels to enjoy.

If you have a retired racehorse and would love to see their story featured, submit their OTT story here:

Submit Your OTT Story