Beyond the Polo Field: Jared Zenni's OTTB Dreams

Reigning from the peaceful countryside of northern Illinois, among vast fields and rustic barns, Jared Zenni has carved out a unique path in polo. As an experienced polo player with a sharp eye for talent, Jared has attracted attention for his skill on the field and his unconventional approach to finding talent: off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTB).

His journey into polo began in childhood, where he swiftly ascended through the ranks due to his natural talent and unwavering determination. However, it wasn’t until he obtained his OTTB, a spirited gelding named Toledo Apache, that Jared realized the untapped potential in re-purposing racehorses for polo.

Since then, Jared has made it his mission to search for the most promising young horses fresh off the track. His process involves carefully evaluating each horse for athleticism, temperament, and adaptability to the demands of polo. Once selected, the horses undergo a rigorous training regimen that combines traditional polo techniques with tailored exercises to harness their natural abilities. “It’s not just about teaching them a new sport,” Jared emphasizes. “It’s about understanding each horse’s strengths and building a partnership based on trust and mutual respect. Every horse has a different personality, which makes this journey so rewarding.”

Transitioning an OTTB to the polo field is challenging. It requires a meticulous approach as OTTBs are typically bred and trained for speed. Still, polo demands a different skillset: agility, responsiveness, and the ability to handle sudden changes in direction. The training process spans months of groundwork to build trust and establish basic skills. Patience is key. Each horse adapts at its own pace, and Jared listens to their cues and adjusts his approach. He has had many successes with this approach. Although not every OTTB he trains becomes a polo pony, they find meaningful roles in other capacities.

From learning polo fundamentals, such as stopping and turning on command, to gradually introducing the game’s nuances, every milestone is a testament to Jared’s commitment. Despite setbacks, each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow together.

To become the “best-mounted” player possible, Jared also set out to build his string of polo ponies by starting a breeding program in Argentina, a country renowned for its rich equestrian heritage and exceptional breeding programs. “Argentina has this incredible tradition of breeding polo ponies,” he enthuses. “Establishing my own breeding program there felt like a natural progression.” The decision to start a breeding program was not just about acquiring more horses but about nurturing a lineage of champions. Ultimately, Jared aims to contribute to the sport by producing horses that embody the essential qualities of polo—sensitivity, balance, explosion, and a winning spirit.

Today, Jared’s stables are home to a diverse herd of horses, including six ex-racehorses turned polo champions. From flashy chestnuts to sleek greys, each horse represents a testament to Jared’s dedication and expertise. His reputation for developing top-quality polo ponies has spread, attracting players and enthusiasts worldwide.

His efforts have recently caught the attention of Daily Racing Form, leading to a partnership aimed at helping racehorses find new life and purpose in the world of polo. “I want people to see the potential in these horses,” Jared states firmly. “They might have been bred for one purpose, but with the right training and care, they can excel in many others.” In a sport often associated with pedigreed horses and prestigious bloodlines, Jared Zenni showcases the beauty of second chances. Through his pioneering work with OTTBs, he challenges conventional wisdom by showcasing the limitless potential of these extraordinary animals on the polo field.