David Aboudi’s introduction to Thoroughbreds was far from typical. Now 60 and semi-retired, this former New York banker relocated to Aspen, Colorado three years ago. While building a home in a gated community near Chaparral Ranch, Aboudi decided to dive fully into the Western lifestyle. He observed that many neighbors owned large tracts of land with elegant barns and riding arenas that went unused. Since his wife loved animals, Aboudi thought starting with a horse would be ideal.
Aboudi began riding gradually, taking his first ride in the summer of 2023 at age 58. He leased some Quarter Horses from the property manager and took riding lessons from a local trainer. His close friend, Eric Blumenkranz, played a key role. Blumenkranz co-owned Unique Unions, a 2019 New York-bred son of Union Jackson who had a successful racing career, earning $262,350 with two wins from 12 starts before retiring to Rerun Thoroughbred Adoption.
Having known Eric for over 30 years, Aboudi explained that Eric’s interest grew after investing in horses, and once retired, he suggested bringing Unique Unions to Colorado. Aboudi flew to Lilan with a riding instructor to evaluate the horses since he admitted to knowing very little about them. Trainer Rick Schosberg, who trained Unique Unions for much of his career, described him as his favorite horse—remarking on the gelding’s exceptional personality and suitability as a trail riding companion. Schosberg, a strong advocate for aftercare, retired from training in 2022 and now chairs the TAKE2 Second Career Thoroughbred Program.
Aboudi decided to bring Unique Unions to Colorado in October 2023. Wanting to be there for his horse’s arrival, he flew to New York. Following advice from experienced riders, he also purchased a Quarter Horse gelding named B Major (named after his wife’s nickname, Little B) to keep Unique Unions company. Unique Unions was renamed “Thunder B.”
Since it’s not recommended for beginners to ride a fresh ex-racehorse, Aboudi’s mentors didn’t let him ride right away. Thunder B was sent to trainer Blue Allen for four months of retraining, working with cattle and ranch activities. Aboudi made two five-hour trips to visit during this period. Once Thunder B returned, Aboudi and the trainer rode together, helping him build confidence. He found this approach invaluable.
Today, a local pro rides Thunder B twice weekly, and Aboudi also rides him twice a week alongside the pro and B Major. While Aboudi’s wife mostly prefers to stay on the ground with their dogs, she enjoys being near the horses. Though Aboudi admits to being a slow learner and self-described “terrible rider,” he is keen to learn more. Currently, barn staff manage daily horse care, but Aboudi anticipates moving full-time near the ranch within the next year to become more involved.
In the meantime, Aboudi has shared memorable adventures riding Thunder B through Colorado’s mountains. Chaparral Ranch manager Ty Bartard took him and B Major on a family cattle drive in summer 2024. Aboudi humorously acknowledged he didn’t need to be on a horse all day, with Bartard’s 7-year-old daughter watching out for him. They also joined Tony Vagner, the ranch manager’s father-in-law, on a salt-packing trip—loading salt into saddlebags for the cattle. Aboudi joked that this gave him “credibility as a real cowboy.”
The entire experience with his first thoroughbred has been overwhelmingly positive. Aboudi expressed that he would happily consider Thoroughbreds again in the future, calling the journey a humbling and valuable learning experience and feeling fortunate for the supportive people around him.
This story was originally published by the Paulick Report on January 29, 2026, in the Horse Care section.
Fan Take: This narrative highlights the rewarding aftercare and second careers available for retired racehorses, which is vital for the sport’s image. It encourages fans and owners to consider the lifelong welfare of Thoroughbreds beyond the track, promoting a culture of responsible horse stewardship.
