I actually have Belmont near me and I've been offered some nice horses that just weren't fast runners years ago by the trainers. I just didn't have the ability to support them then (offered for free no less!) I have a connection to track vets, so you're probably right it's better to go directly to the trainer. My old instructor used to do that and got some very nice TBs that she incorporated into her warmblood/TB cross breeding program. And I know what you mean about soundness. Hey, do you see a lot of stringhalt in your exracers? I've seen it pretty common around here, especially in OTTBs turned into jumpers. Wondering if it's just coincidence.

Good point on the beet pulp...that's actually what she's on now and a mixed hay (not straight alfalfa.)

Her first owner had her on straight oats and alfalfa cubes and she spent more time with all four feet off the ground than on. She was pretty frightening to look at back then. Poor thing too...can't imagine what that does to a horse's mind.