“I am a 16 year old Junior who purchased my mare directly off the track in August 2022. I have always stated that I would like a horse from the Tapit bloodline if I ever found one for sale. In August, that dream became a reality when a beautiful Tapit mare named Cybertap was to retire from racing. I went to my parents and stated my case that I needed this mare so badly. I told them that I would purchase the mare with my own money and explained that I wanted another shot at going to the Makeover, as I was accepted into the 2022 Makeover, but had to scratch due to a soundness issue. Unfortunately, my 2022 Makeover prospect is still not sound, which makes me very disappointed, but I haven’t given up on my goal of competing at the Makeover.
I purchased Cybertap a few days after the sales ad had been published. Cybertap had raced just seven times, coming in third twice, winning $2,344 total. The gentleman at the track said, “I like this mare, she has never made a wrong step but she just wasn't fast enough”. Cybertap has lived up to my expectations and has been such a sweet girl with excellent ground manners.
Finally, December 1st came and it was now time to saddle her up to see what we are working with. To my surprise, she was pretty rough under-saddle. I had expected her to be easy under-saddle since she had been perfect on the ground up to this point, but she will be a big project.
I ride Cybertap a couple times a week, and each time she improves. I will do all the riding/training with the guidance of my coach, Jill Mills with Two Mills Farm in Aiken, SC. Jill has really been my rock and helps me bring along young horses. Jill has a lifetime of experience and a vast knowledge of many disciplines. My advice to anyone considering entering the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover is to listen to your horse and let your horse tell you what speed to progress. I am a big fan of putting the time into your groundwork”.