Starting to race

Question
QUESTION: Is starting a horse to race in Australia, after the Melbourne Cup, a reasonable time for their first race? 2 1/2 year old.

ANSWER: hi-- we race 2 yr olds here in the states as long as they are truley a 2 yr old according to their foal papers. as long as they have been exrayed to make sure that the knees are closed up and not open.2 yr olds do have problems with knees and shins if started to race too soon before they are mature. some trainers wait till they are 3 ye olds that way  they know the horse is mature and ready to race. the only reason that 2 yr olds are raced so young is that there are a lot of big money purses offered , so people run for the purses.  hope thais helps you  thanks ED HESS

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The irish racehorses learn showjumping etc before being trained to race. Is this beneficial and if so why?  I currently keep the 2yr old in a sloping paddock with other horses. I find she is developing fine shoulders. I am thinking the sloping paddock is a boon. Am I right to think this?

Answer
hi  all training of a 2 yr old is good for them as they need to build mass  and stamina. up and down hills are good too.roping in a sand ring is very good also. i have won many a race right out of the good old sand ring. show training is good for the young horses because it shows them experience . they learn how to change leads and relax. hope this helps you ED HESS