Can I earn a horses trust back?

This thoroughbred of mine we had a bond when he was a foal and he was lying in the sand I could walk right up to him and he'd stay lying down. He'd put his head in my lap and I was able to lie by his flank he'd always nudge me when he wanted to get up. Our bond went on like this playing games curling up under the shelter in the rain but when he turned three he was sent away to race. (He wasnt mine at the time). Im just wondering is it possible to earn his trust again?? Are we able to go back to our childhood lives but as adults even after three years apart?...

With patience and time, you can earn this horse's trust again. The relationship may never be exactly the same as it was when he was a foal. Horses are really not that much different to humans. As children we may be trusting, but our life experiences affect how easily we trust as adults. The more one's trust is broken, the harder it gets to trust.

Work with this horse with no expectation that he 'should' trust you because of your previous history. It will take time. But you can develop a new relationship with this horse ... and help him heal from any past trauma.

Ok thanks :) ill keep working with him an lets hope he does come to trust me again. And ill be thankful he never has to return to racing.
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Do you own him now?
Yes, of course you can earn it back. There are very few horses who will never give their trust over. But I think the hardest part will be the time. What gave you and him the bond before wasn't skills or exercises like 'groundwork' or 'respect building' or anything like that - it was time. You clearly spent a great deal of time with him and that's why he loved you.
I'm positive this horse will remember you, which will give you a good head start - but he may be very damaged by his racing career and not be willing to trust anyone, even you, just yet. If he's yours and your able go get the best horsey book you can find (I suggest "Sam (A Pastoral)") and sit down in his paddock or stall (depending where you can do so safely) and read it. Groom him, love him, give him hugs and kisses. Just spend time.

I'm a great one for just hanging out and not even touching the horses as, except for mutual groomings horses don't touch each other. One loves to have his underjaw rubbed so I may oblige and the other loves to have the edge of his nostrils stroked. I'll do this only if asked.

It won't be the same as when he was a foal, foals bond a little easier because they are looking for someone to protect and guide them, and don't worry too much about dominance. Unfortunately it's not going to be that easy with a horse, but it's definitely not impossible, just won't be the same.