Their heads are dropped low and rarely rise above their shoulders. They look like also-rans and run the same. This negative ear position can be brought about by soreness or extreme tiredness. These horses usually enter the paddock with their heads so low, you wonder how they continue to move forward without falling over. If you look very closely at their faces, you see half-closed eyes and a very sad look.
Every step appears laborious.
Absolutely nothing about their posture suggests readiness of any kind. Horses with flopped over ears most often retreat from the break and play caboose crossing the wire. They signify both good health and a positive attitude for the upcoming race. As always, a caveat is in order. Or, he might turn his ears backwards when his jockey is attempting to communicate with him or the outrider.