S2 E29: A Tale of Two OTTBs: Chelsey O’Brien on Confidence, Giving Back & RRP Dreams

Virginia-based trainer Chelsey O’Brien returns to OTTB on Tap as she gears up for the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover—this time with two OTTBs and twice the determination. Representing the nonprofit Pastured Place, Chelsey introduces us to The Pepsodent Show (“Peppy”), a charismatic 5-year-old gelding by VE Day. With a name that throws it back to the golden age of radio—The Pepsodent Show was a wildly popular 1930s–40s comedy series hosted by Bob Hope, not unlike today’s podcasts—Peppy brings brains, athleticism, and a big personality to the table.Chelsey is also retraining her personal mare, Fuzzy Wuzzy, a powerful 4-year-old by Palace, for the barrels and possibly ranch work. In this candid episode, she walks us through how she juggles training two very different OTTBs, her role as a Pastured Place ambassador, and what it means to advocate for Thoroughbred aftercare as both a horsewoman and a mom.From groundwork and restart strategies to hauling, first shows, and building mental fitness, Chelsey shares thoughtful advice for anyone bringing along an off-track Thoroughbred. She also reflects on how organizations like Pastured Place and The Western Thoroughbred are changing the landscape—making OTTBs more visible and accessible in both English and Western disciplines.This episode is part of the RRP Trainer Chronicles, an OTTB on Tap Original Series spotlighting the trainers and Thoroughbreds preparing for the Retired Racehorse Project Makeover. Whether you're considering an OTTB for barrel racing, competitive trail, eventing, or the Thoroughbred Makeover, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways from a trainer who's all heart—and all in.OTTB on Tap is 100% independently produced by two horse girls who love Thoroughbreds and great storytelling. If you enjoy the show, you can support us through Buy Me a Coffee at buymeacoffee.com/ottbontap. Every bit helps us keep the mics on and the stories flowing. 🐎💛