Michael Alway - Confidence Before Collection - OTTB Foundational Clinic

Developing the Fundamentals for the Restarted Thoroughbred
with Michael Alway

This hands-on clinic focuses on building confidence, communication, and suppleness in the Off-Track Thoroughbred through a deeper understanding of equine psychology and learning. Participants will learn how horses think, process information, and respond to training, creating a stronger foundation for future success in any discipline.

Each session combines groundwork and ridden work designed to improve trust, responsiveness, relaxation, and rider effectiveness. The clinic is suitable for Thoroughbreds at various stages of retraining and for riders of varying experience levels.

Meet the Clinician! - Michael Alway

Michael Alway is a horseman, clinician, and event rider based in Boyce, Virginia. Through his work at Viewpoint Equestrian, he helps horses and riders build confidence, trust, and partnership through a deeper understanding of equine psychology and learning.

Drawing from a background that includes studying under Pat and Linda Parelli, starting horses in Europe, competing in Extreme Mustang Makeovers, judging at the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover, and developing event and dressage horses, Michael combines practical horsemanship with performance training. His passion is helping riders understand how horses think, learn, and respond so they can create willing, confident partners both on the ground and under saddle.

Whether working with young horses, competition horses, or horses facing behavioral challenges, Michael focuses on developing communication, confidence, and trust as the foundation for long-term success.

OTTB ReStart Clinic Series at Great Meadow

The goal of the program is to showcase best practices in Thoroughbred retraining and highlight the versatility of these horses across disciplines. This clinic focuses on developing OTTBs from foundational work through the demands of a horse show environment. Under professional instruction, riders and their horses will learn through the lens of a top-level professional, with an emphasis on understanding and navigating the unique complexities of working with OTTBs.

This clinic is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.