Jimmer, a handsome 10-year-old by Equinox Bi, has a way of getting everyone's attention when they walk into the barn.
“It must be his unique look that makes people notice him – he leaves an impression on everyone,” said Jimmer's former trainer, Jessica Roegner.
Jimmer gave it his all every time he stepped foot on the racetrack, and when he just wasn’t himself anymore, Roegner decided it was time for him to retire.
Jimmer made 117 starts during his racing career and took 22 trips to the winners' circle and earned a bankroll of $172,645.
“In 2015, the year we got him, he won multiple Open races in New York. He set his lifetime mark of 1:54.1 before he injured his leg,” said Roegner. “He was always fun to watch race because he never really got started until the half. He was one that would come charging hard late.”
Roegner said that Jimmer is a people's horse who everyone seems to love.
“I’ve never been around a horse that has a more down to earth personality than Jimmer,” said Roegner. “His previous owner Sally Corlew, has always kept in touch with me on how he is doing. Even the fellow that delivered grain to us in New York still asks about him a year after we moved to Ohio.”
The well behaved, bay gelding is so gentle that both the young and the old are able to take care of him. When it came to having someone on his back, it was like he was an old pro.
“While having time off he was at my mom's farm and we had my niece, Anna, get on him,” said Roegner. “He didn't even move a muscle. He acted as if he'd been riding for years. He is always so eager to please.”
Jessica Otten took care of Jimmer a couple of times while he was racing at Northfield Park in Ohio and she fell in love with him the minute she laid eyes on him. Otten has stated that Jimmer was so sweet and gentle – he was like a giant puppy. According to Otteen, Jimmer did this thing when you walked him, he would move his head back and forth almost like he was nodding ‘yes’ to you. He never did a thing wrong, said Otten, who went on to state that he was hands down one of her favourites to take care of. After the race, it’s like Jimmer knew it was time for his treats.
“He loves food, he will literally eat anything. I haven't found a treat he won’t eat.” Roegner said.
“For a trotter, Jimmer is exceptionally quiet,” stated the Standardbred program director, Winnie Nemeth. “He was broke to ride in a matter of minutes and by the end of his first ride, Courtney Labarbera, our trainer, was able to stand up on his back with no hands! Jimmer is kind and so willing. In just a short time he is already a favourite in the barn.”
Jimmer is at the Western New York facility and is up for adoption. For more information, check out the New Vocations website (www.newvocations.org). Be sure to visit the site and view all the amazing athletes they have up for adoption. Remember, make your next horse an ex-racehorse!
(With files from Post Time with Mike and Mike)