Early identification indicates a horse has come to the end of its preparation and looking for a spell can mean less time needed in the paddock, so trainers and their other handlers have to be very in tune with their horse, in order to read the signs.
A spell can be roughly categorised in three ways: a freshen up, which is a week to 20 days; a basic spell, which is anywhere from three to six weeks; and a longer spell, which might be three to six months.
A freshen up might be required simply because they’ve been a bit jaded or perhaps found a track a little hard or had a cold. The three-to-six-week break could be needed if there is shin soreness, a slight injury, or the trainer wants them to grow out a bit. The three-to-six-month spell is often after a more serious injury, such as a sprained tendon or cracked bone, where rehabilitation is vital.
Each horse is treated as an individual and observed closely, so some may be rugged and boxed at night and put out in an irrigated paddock during the day, whilst others, depending on the weather, might stay out in a paddock all the time.
Properties are generally divided up into paddocks of varying sizes, and many boast an abundance of trees and plenty of water. Quality pastures, providing plenty of green grass for the horses to enjoy, are maintained by specially designed maintenance and irrigation systems. Safe fences are a must, and tree-lined paddocks provide shelter from the wind and the heat. Many farms are set on undulating grounds, catering for all horses’ needs: from rising hills to flat plains.
The quiet and peaceful surrounds of spelling farms are the ultimate place for thoroughbreds to rest, relax and rejuvenate, sending them back to their stables healthy, happy and ready to make magic on the track.