Although this is not technically a lesser-known breed, I've discovered many people are unfamiliar with the term OTTB, and are unaware of the number of OTTB's who are seeking a new career, and are unaware of some of the unique challenges that might face a rider who buys or adopts an OTTB. Thoroughbreds are a very versatile breed. Not only do they do well on the track, they also excel at jumping and dressage, and they can make excellent trail horses. They are extremely intelligent, and most of them have been handled extensively from birth, so they are very attuned to riders and handlers.
They can be very high-strung however, and because of the intense work they undergo at an early age, they may have suffered damage to the spine and pelvis, and to the ligaments and joints - subjected to the pounding pace of the track. In recent years the horse racing industry has come under scrutiny, and much attention has been given in the media to improving the lives of race horses, and the outcomes for horses who leave the racing industry. Numerous organizations have sprung up that are dedicated to rehoming OTTB's, including Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and Canter
Thank you for spotlighting OTTBs! I love these horses-they have so many positive qualities (loyalty, braveness, dependability), but they can also come with "baggage" (trust issues, physical limitations). They are worth supporting, however!