OFF The Track Thoroughbreds (OTTB) are plentiful in North America and Blackfoot Mystery joined the ranks of ex-racehorses looking for a new vocation after a less-than-stellar racing record. Foaled in 2004 and by the Claiborne Farm sire Out Of Place, he failed to reach his $24,000 reserve at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale and finished last twice out of his three starts in California, his total racetrack earnings $1,200.

Through the Thoroughbred Rehab Center, he found a new home with Lisa Peecook, who started his eventing career. Pennsylvania-based Kelly Prather then brought him to three-star level and by that stage the 17-hand “Red” had caught the eye of Boyd Martin.