Equine Massage Therapist Credits Horse Dialog for Racing success
DEL MAR, CA – A growing number of horse racing professionals are turning to equine massage therapy, and one practitioner, whose work boasts a 15%-20% winner’s circle rate, attributes her success to a deep understanding of equine communication. The therapist, who works extensively with trainers and owners at tracks like Del Mar, Los Alamitos, and Santa Anita, believes establishing mutual respect and reading subtle body language are key to unlocking a horse’s potential.
“When they get on the horse they feel a difference. The horse just goes better,” she says, referencing feedback from exercise riders. Her approach begins even before treatment, prioritizing a connection with the animal. “I spend a good 5 to 10 minutes outside the stall, letting them smell me,” she explains. “Then I ask their permission, ‘Can I come in your stall?’ and they know already, like this person is not trying to barge into my space.”
she emphasizes the importance of recognizing non-verbal cues. “They’ll move away from me, or a quick move of the leg. It’s all very subtle,” she notes, adding that she maintains complete focus during sessions, eliminating distractions.
Beyond massage, she actively advocates for horse welfare, having lobbied for rulings from the California Horse racing Board (CHRB) to protect equine integrity. She focuses on keeping horses “relaxed, strong and happy,” recognizing that, like human athletes, they benefit from attention to muscle tightness and soreness.
Her demanding schedule typically runs from 7:30 A.M.to 9 P.M.,extending to race days where she combines massage sessions with trackside analysis. She observes horses in the paddock,assessing their relaxation levels,and monitors their breathing and stamina after races to inform future treatments.
A recent highlight was the August 30 victory of Om N joy in the Torrey Pines Stakes for 3-year-old fillies at Del Mar, a moment she described as “like waking up on another planet.” While she cherishes thes wins – stating they are “better than falling in love” – she always waits for an invitation to join the winner’s circle.
Following the Del Mar season, she plans a short break before continuing her work at Los Alamitos and santa Anita.