TAA Magazine 2020 Digital

Finger Lakes Thoroughbred
Adoption Program RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Old Army, a 2011 graduate of the Finger Lakes program, shows in dressage. TESTIMONIAL:

“Giving horses a second chance to be winners” Local horsemen help fund the program by “The accreditation
is the noble credo that the Finger Lakes Thor- contributing $2 for every start a horse makes, of FLTAP by the
oughbred Adoption Program lives by. an amount matched by the Finger Lakes Racing TAA is a significant
Association. FLTAP also hosts fundraising endorsement of
FLTAP was founded in 2006 when Finger dinners, polo matches, benefit horse shows, golf our efforts as the
Lakes racetrack management and the local tournaments, and holiday events, with money first ontrack
Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Associ- going directly to the program. Volunteers donate Thoroughbred
ation division decided something must be done time, talent, and product in addition to cash. adoption program
to protect at-risk runners, most notably those in North America.
headed down the claiming ladder. This award- Horses entering FLTAP must be reasonably Its ongoing support
winning retraining and adoption program has sound and have the potential for a second career, of our program is
helped more than 400 horses find new homes. whether in the show ring or for pleasure riding. paramount to our
Successful adoptions have included I B a Baby- success.”
FLTAP was the first adoption organization doll (aka “Pepper,” jumper), Five Aces (“Ace,”
located on racetrack grounds. Delaware North, trail riding), and City Mint (barrel racing). Most FOUNDED: 2006
the parent of Finger Lakes Gaming and Race- FLTAP horses ended their racing careers in
track, donated the two-acre site upon which a lower-level claiming races at Finger Lakes. ADDRESS:
10,000-square-foot, 16-stall barn now stands, 5757 NYS Route 96,
built with state funding, a grant from the Amer- Prospective adopters undergo an in-depth Farmington, NY 14425
ican Humane Association, and contributions screening process, including an interview, to
from donors such as Wanda Polisseni, for whose determine if they are able to provide a good PHONE: (585) 500-5333
Purple Haze Stables the center is named. The home for an ex-racehorse. When accepted, they
facility also includes a riding arena, turnout are matched with horses appropriate for their MAIN CONTACT:
paddocks, and round pens. skill level, experience, and goals. Julie Smith

WEB ADDRESS:
fltap.org

SOCIAL:
FLTAPAdoption

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
35

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 49

Florida Thoroughbred Retirement SANCTUARY
and Adoptive Care Program REHABILITATION

RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Florida TRAC TESTIMONIAL:

Florida TRAC’s retraining process includes fundamentals to prepare horses for a new career. “The appreciated
collaborative efforts
The Florida Thoroughbred Retirement and starts and one win is now thriving as a member and support provided
Adoptive Care Program was established in 2010 of the Davie Police Department Mounted Unit, by the TAA are vital
with a focus on providing rest, rehabilitation, and Charming Kid, who after eight career starts to assist Florida
retraining, and adoptive services to horses that and one win is now training for a career in the TRAC in obtaining our
previously competed at Gulfstream Park and eventing discipline. goals of excellence in
Gulfstream Park West. Part of Florida TRAC’s the transition of off-the-
primary purpose is to start the retraining Florida TRAC places about a horse per week, track Thoroughbreds
process to allow as many horses as possible to so many of our retired Thoroughbreds are now from their racing
find a loving forever home. enjoying leisurely lives as trail horses or flour- careers in South
ishing in new competitive careers. Florida to their new
Graduates of Florida TRAC have been careers. The TAA
retrained for a wide range of second careers, “We are so appreciative of every volunteer and funding ensures our
including the show ring, trail riding, eventing, staff member who make Florida TRAC a thriv- high level of expecta-
therapy for children and veterans, police work, ing resource for off-the-track Thoroughbreds,” tion to provide
pasture companions, and much more. Adoption said Jena Antonucci, vice president of Florida excellent care,
fees vary, depending on the level of training and TRAC. nutrition, and training
the potential of each individual. is met.”
“Watching our retired racing athletes thrive
Florida TRAC keeps an open line of communi- in their new adoptive homes is not only mean- FOUNDED: 2010
cation with adopters throughout the lifetime of ingful but necessary as the Thoroughbred
their adoptee. industry continues to evolve. ADDRESS:
6650 Kanner Hwy.
Florida TRAC’s success stories include such “Having the support of horsemen and jockeys Indiantown, FL 34956
horses as Tizrobertcharles, who after seven continues to show the united message of how
important proper retirement is for our athletes.” PHONE: (833) 352-8722

MAIN CONTACTS:
Katie Schmit, Jena Antonucci

WEB ADDRESS:
fltrac.org

SOCIAL:
floridatrac
@FloridaTrac
@floridatrac

PAGE 50 DAILY RACING FORM

Friends of Ferdinand SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

JPH Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Friends of Ferdinand has an internship program that allows volunteers the opportunity to work “TAA provides a
with horses that are being retrained to transition to new careers. consistent, stable,
and reliable funding
Friends of Ferdinand Inc. (FFI) is an Indiana- months or six, Friends of Ferdinand horses are source for equine
based nonprofit dedicated to promoting respon- ready for new careers with amateur riders. programs that does
sible retirement for racehorses in Indiana and not exist elsewhere.
the Midwest with options for second careers. The goal of Friends of Ferdinand is to work With that, we are able
closely with adopters to find the right home for to confidently plan
Established in 2005, Friends of Ferdinand took each horse the first time. The adoption process and implement
its name from the famed racehorse Ferdinand, a begins with an application that includes veteri- strategies for
Kentucky Derby winner who earned millions on narian, farrier, and personal references. Poten- sustainable growth in
the track but was ultimately sent to slaughter. tial adopters are required to visit and ride their order to better meet
To honor his memory, FFI has established a very potential horses with FFI’s head trainer. In the needs of the
successful retraining and adoption program. addition, adopters are offered a 30-day trial so horses and horsemen
Additionally, FFI offers an internship program that they may take their new horse home for a in Indiana and the
that affords young people who are interested in prepurchase exam and evaluations by their own Midwest. The horses
a horse-industry career the opportunity to work veterinarian, farrier, and trainer. benefit when we all
with horses in aftercare or preparing for adop- work together.”
tion. These adoption and match-making processes
have proved effective, with an almost 100 percent FOUNDED: 2005
Each horse receives a thorough vet check to year-over-year successful adoption rate. FFI
identify any physical limitations and generally grads have become trail and dressage horses, ADDRESS:
stays a minimum of 90 days for evaluation and such as Logan Township, a gelding who raced 78 P.O. Box 1784
retraining. Once ready to begin work, Friends times, and Right to War, who raced three times. Indianapolis, IN 46206
of Ferdinand’s retraining philosophy is: “Let Others have transitioned into hunter/jumpers,
the horse set the pace.” Whether it takes three eventers, and pleasure horses. EMAIL:
[email protected]

MAIN CONTACT:
Sara Busbice

WEB ADDRESS:
friendsofferdinand.com

SOCIAL:
OTTBsforFFI
@Ferdinators
@friendsofferdinandinc

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
30

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 51

Galloping Out REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Eva Orlando TESTIMONIAL:

Winston, a son of Dynaformer who raced as Gold Former and earned nearly $150,000, is being “Becoming
ridden by 12-year-old Eva at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Ill. accredited by the
TAA was a
Galloping Out is the on-track adoption program must ride for the farm trainers to guarantee a benchmark for
serving the two Chicago-area Thoroughbred good fit. Galloping Out follows up with pictures of Galloping Out. For
racetracks, Arlington Park and Hawthorne Race the horse at six months and one year, and retains as much as the
Course. the right to do a physical inspection at any time. funding has helped
It tries to stay in touch with the adopters, such us maintain
Galloping Out began accepting horses in as via Facebook, and has found that these new additional horses,
spring 2010. What began with three horses has owners can’t wait to share pictures and videos of the honor of
grown to accommodate as many as 30 at one time, their horse’s accomplishments. accreditation has
with some 250 successful adoptions. lifted the program
Galloping Out is in the fortunate position to in the eyes of the
Galloping Out partners with seven private have the support of both Chicago-area race- Chicago racing
farms for rest and rehabilitation, retraining, and tracks. In addition, owners contribute with an community and has
eventual adoptions. These farms include profes- optional per-start fee. translated into
sional Thoroughbred farms, hunter/jumper additional donations.”
barns, and an eventing facility. Several have Galloping Out has been rewarded with a
youth programs, and the kids learn old-school grant from Thoroughbred Charities of America FOUNDED: 2010
horsemanship working with these retired race- for three consecutive years. It is generously
horses. supported by the owners and trainers in Chicago, ADDRESS:
as well as several private foundations. 7301 W. 25th St., Suite 321
Galloping Out requires an application for North Riverside, IL 60546
an individual to be considered as a potential Racing fans take a keen interest in the
adopter. Not only are references checked, but as program. Galloping Out also hosts fundraising PHONE: (708) 652- 2201
often as possible someone will visit the stable or events throughout the year and does community
farm where the horse is going to live. Adopters outreach. MAIN CONTACT: Janice Ely

WEBSITE:
www.gallopingout.org

SOCIAL:
itharacing
@itharacing
@itharacing

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
24

PAGE 52 DAILY RACING FORM

Glen Ellen SANCTUARY
Vocational Academy REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Glen Ellen Vocational Academy, located in the wine country of Sonoma Valley, is one of TESTIMONIAL:
America’s oldest rescue organizations and has provided safe haven for hundreds of horses.
“TAA grants have
Glen Ellen Vocational Academy (GEVA) is to the stakes winners. GEVA’s mission is to be provided much-
one of America’s oldest rescue organizations, the best friend and advocate for each individual needed funding to
founded in California 25 years ago by former horse. provide for these
racetrack steward Pam Berg. The foundation noble Thoroughbreds,
has rehabilitated, placed, and provided safe GEVA has an established relationship with who have given their
haven for hundreds of Thoroughbreds, for Santa Rosa Junior College, with Berg being on its lives to the racing
which Berg has been honored with the Dogwood Equine Advisory Committee. UC-Davis Veteri- industry and need a
Dominion Award as one of racing’s “unsung nary Medicine Club members come to GEVA comfortable
heroes.” She was also inducted into the Equus for their dental wet labs twice a year, and many sanctuary in which
Hall of Fame of the Sonoma Horse Council. Sonoma State University students do their volun- to retire. Some go on
teer hours at the farm. Clinics and seminars can to second careers,
“GEVA was founded for injured, retired, and be arranged upon request, as well as farm tours. but others have a
abused horses or those just in need of a home,” Through fundraising and informational efforts, well-earned retirement
Berg said. “GEVA is dedicated to preventing GEVA attempts to educate the public about horse and just enjoy being
slaughter, needless euthanasia, and abuse of racing, as well as the inherent responsibility in horses.”
horses in any way.” the ownership and care of horses.
FOUNDED: 1995
Most horses become permanent pensioners at GEVA is fortunate to have many supporters,
the sanctuary since they don’t have the option including Ridgeway Ranch, the home of the ADDRESS:
of a second career. “There is so much empha- famous Seabiscuit. P.O. Box 2101
sis on second careers nowadays that those who Glen Ellen, CA 95442
can’t have a second career need to be assured of GEVA is currently located among the vine-
a comfortable retirement,” Berg said. yards in beautiful Sonoma Valley. However, a PHONE:
136-acre farm has been purchased in Oregon to (707) 527-8092
GEVA, also accredited by the Global Federa- which the farm will eventually move.
tion of Animal Sanctuaries, focuses on the reha- MAIN CONTACT:
bilitation and retirement of the sport’s noble GEVA is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit Pam Berg
racetrack warriors, from the lowest claimer organization totally dependent upon the generous
grants and tax-deductible charitable donations. WEB ADDRESS:
glenellenfarms.com/geva

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

30

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 53

Harmony and Hope SANCTUARY
Horse Haven

Ruth Plenty of Harmony and Hope Horse Haven with F W Pirate, a New Mexico-bred gelding TESTIMONIAL:
who won just one of 16 lifetime starts, earning $2,982, and now lives happily in a sanctuary.
“TAA requirements
During the mid-1990s, owner and breeder Ruth know contentment.” for the care of
Plenty observed a disturbing trend – that injured, At any given time, some 35 horses live in perma- Thoroughbreds are
old, or unsuccessful racehorses were loaded onto highly approved and
trailers and sent to auction. It didn’t seem right, nent retirement on Plenty’s property, located recognized by other
so she decided to do something to stem that heart- 2 1/2 hours outside of Tucson, Ariz.; most of them organizations and
breaking tide. are Thoroughbreds, and several are stallions. individuals; to be
According to Plenty, about 90 percent of Harmony recognized as
Plenty and her husband, Dennis, began and Hope’s lifetime residents earned less than meeting these
rescuing horses whenever and wherever $45,000, many after racing for years. standards is an
they could, absorbing the cost largely out of honor. To meet TAA
pocket, and eventually setting up Harmony The current herd ranges in age from 5 to 36, standards for
and Hope Horse Haven as a sanctuary for ex- with earnings up to $175,000, the horses having documentation, my
racehorses. raced in New York, Florida, Washington, Cali- ‘paperwork’ had to
fornia, and Canada. Regardless of racing career, become organized.
“This is the best job I’ve ever had,” said Ruth medical issues, or personalities, the horses are Accomplished TAA
Plenty, who performs many of the daily tasks at provided a lifetime home at Harmony and Hope. staff were so helpful
the 40-acre Pile of Old Rocks Ranch, the home and patient. Thank
base of Harmony and Hope. “All of our horses All incoming horses are placed in three-week you, TAA.”
are success stories. They came off the track quarantine, during which they are thoroughly
unwanted, with no place to go – but did not end evaluated and any health issues are addressed. FOUNDED: 2005
up abandoned or at feedlot auctions. Instead,
they spend their days eating, sleeping, and being Harmony and Hope has been recognized by LOCATION:
groomed. They know they have a home – they Thoroughbred Charities of America, CARMA, Portal, AZ
and After the Finish Line, as well as being
accredited by the TAA. MAILING ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 173
Rodeo, NM 88056

PHONE: (520) 558-1950 (land)
(602) 540-9413 (cell)

MAIN CONTACT:
Ruth Plenty

WEB ADDRESS:
harmonyandhopehorsehaven.org

SOCIAL:
harmonyandhopehorsehaven

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
35

PAGE 54 DAILY RACING FORM

Heart of Phoenix REHABILITATION
Equine Rescue RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“We felt TAA
accreditation was
the highest seal of
approval possible in
the equine rescue
world. It lets our
donors and
supporters know
that we operate in a
transparent, honest,
and excellent manner
for the horses in our
care.”

Heart of Phoenix team with Lord Shamrock (right), the first horse helped by the organization. FOUNDED: 2009

Heart of Phoenix Equine Rescue is West area issues through clinics, educational events, ADDRESS:
Virginia’s largest and most effective equine blogs, and other in-person services to be advo- P.O. BOX 81
advocacy organization. Founded at a time when cates for good horsemanship and a strong equine Shoals, WV 25562
there were no active organizations in the area, industry in the region.
Heart of Phoenix works throughout Appalachia PHONE:
with a united group of volunteers and partners to The organization’s focus is to improve the (304) 784-4061
improve the outlook for horses in the region. outlook for horses, not only the horses currently
in its care but for the long term. Horses in its MAIN CONTACT:
The organization assists local animal control care receive the rehab and training they need to Tinia Creamer
and law enforcement officers, educates the public, become awesome equine partners for adopters.
and has become a leader in the local equine indus- WEB ADDRESS:
try, creating lasting and positive change. As an Heart of Phoenix also strives to create more www.WVhorserescue.org.
advocate for all horses in Appalachia, where good horsemen and horsewomen, so there are
poverty is rife, the nonprofit knows the need for more suitable homes and fewer horses in need of SOCIAL:
education and assistance in the region. rescue and assistance. The horses of this region HeartofPhoenixEquinerescue
have a valuable voice thanks to Heart of Phoe- @WVhorserescue
Heart of Phoenix strives to work at the root of nix’s supporters. @heart_of_phoenix_equine_rescue

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
8

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 55

Hidden Acres Rescue RETRAINING/ADOPTION
for Thoroughbreds

Florida-based Hidden Acres focuses on helping ex-racehorses find a new home or second career. TESTIMONIAL:

Founded in September 2011, Hidden Acres Norris, HART founder and executive director, “The benefits of TAA
Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART for Horses) said, “The ASPCA Help A Horse Day contest is a accreditation started
is committed to being the voice for off-the-track wonderful opportunity for our team to welcome the moment we
Thoroughbreds on Florida’s Space Coast. Nestled the residents and businesses of Brevard County began filling out the
on seven serene acres between a national wildlife into our barn and help spread awareness about application, allowing
refuge on its western border, and a recreational the at-risk horses in our community who are in us to more effectively
area to its south, HART provides miles of riding need of loving homes. Horses are majestic, loving establish our
trails through to the Canaveral Groves. animals, and we hope our local supporters will foundation and
come out to help us so we can continue our life- set standards for
The main barn is well-ventilated for the saving efforts for years to come.” success. Since
summer heat and rated for winds up to 150 mph to accreditation, HART
withstand the hurricane season of Florida’s east- To date, HART has helped more than 150 retired has additional funds
ern coastline. With 15 turn-out pastures, a large racehorses find success in their new careers, to grow, and
jumping and schooling arena, and a standard including three who qualified for the American allow us to help more
dressage arena, HART offers a full array of facili- Eventing Championship in 2017, and several who horses. We hold the
ties and services geared toward rehabilitation are working as therapy horses to serve the local backing of the TAA
and re-homing. It also offers traditional lessons, community. in high regard and
boarding, and a growing interest in equine ther- ensure daily that we
apy. Those people who live in the area or are plan- uphold the standards
ning to visit the Cocoa/Cocoa Beach area can help expected by
Built on a belief that education and outreach by volunteering their time. As a 501(c)(3) charita- accreditation.”
improve the lives of those in their community, ble organization, HART offers a variety of ways
as well as the lives of the equine athletes they to provide financial support, from sponsoring a YEAR FOUNDED: 2011
rescue, HART regularly opens its barn doors to horse, business sponsorships, traditional dona-
the local community. tions, and even shopping online via the Amazon ADDRESS: 6360 Arborwood Ave.
Smile program. Cocoa, FL 32927
Speaking about one such event, Suzanna
PHONE: (321) 543-2924

MAIN CONTACT: Suzanna Norris

WEB ADDRESS:
hartforhorses.org

SOCIAL:
hartforhorses
@HARTforHORSES
@hartforhorses

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
10

PAGE 56 DAILY RACING FORM

Hope After Racing SANCTUARY
Thoroughbreds REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Derith Vogt TESTIMONIAL:

Hope After Racing graduate Italian Monarch is now successfully training in dressage. “Obtaining
accreditation has
Hope After Racing Thoroughbreds (HART) situation for every horse in our care, with the been a process in the
was created to provide rehabilitation, retrain- goal of placing each in a forever home. We are works for some time,
ing, and ultimately adoption for Thorough- available to help adopters with any problems and we are proud to
breds training and/or racing in Iowa. Our that arise. In the event an adoptive horse must have finally achieved
mission is to ensure a safe, temporary home for be returned for any reason, we take the horse that goal. Along
injured or noncompetitive Thoroughbred race- back and facilitate the readoption process. the way of becom-
horses with uncertain futures that had raced ing accredited, we
at Prairie Meadows Racetrack. HART is the only rehabilitation, retraining, have identified some
and adoption organization recognized by all areas of improvement
HART provides a peaceful environment and racing organizations in Iowa. In fact, HART’s that we believe will
experienced care for each horse’s individual board is constructed to include a representa- enhance our abilities
recuperative needs with adequate time to tran- tive of each group, specifically the Iowa Horse- to help place
sition from the racetrack environment. Once men’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Thoroughbreds
they are ready, horses begin retraining with Iowa Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners coming off the track
the goal to prepare them for second careers Associations, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and finding new
and/or homes. and Casino, and the Iowa Racing and Gaming careers and homes.”
Commission.
HART has been active since 2010 and has FOUNDED: 2010
placed more than 50 horses. HART puts the Along with these groups from racing, HART
needs of the horse first and endeavors to also incorporates board members from the ADDRESS:
address any injuries, followed by adequate overall horse industry. 1 Prairie Meadows Dr.
rehabilitation as we get to know each horse and Altoona, IA 50009
their potential for a second career. We pride ourselves in bringing the two
worlds together to create the best possible PHONE: (515) 967-4804
We believe that every horse benefits from solution for the horses placed in our care.
daily handling and being taught solid ground MAIN CONTACT:
manners, so they are a good citizen in their HART has three veterinarians serving Jon Moss
next career. on the volunteer board, and has an excellent
working relationship with Iowa State Univer- EMAIL ADDRESS:
HART is a lean organization staffed by sity Veterinarian College to assist with our [email protected]
volunteers striving to find the perfect adoptive most challenging cases.
WEB ADDRESS:
iahart.org

SOCIAL:
hopeafterracingthoroughbreds

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

20

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 57

Hope for Horses SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Terrie Coates Moon TESTIMONIAL:

Team Hope For Horses participates during the 2019 California State Fair in Sacramento. “TAA has helped us
‘up our game.’ Hope
Better is a never-ending quest. Here at Hope offers continued lessons and training to all its for Horses strives
for Horses, we continue to evolve in our efforts to adopted horses as well as other horses in the to achieve a level of
showcase our re-careered Thoroughbreds. community. Nationally known clinicians are proficiency above the
brought in several times a year to broaden staff norm, and as
Our goals of transitioning these magnificent knowledge. Hope for Horses is part of The Forever stewards of these
animals into other disciplines include provid- Foundation with Trevor Carter, a talented horse- majestic creatures, it
ing training and mental/emotional wellness. man. His online video lessons and challenges is great to be part
We believe educating, training, and molding our give us goals to achieve with each horse, working of a team that
charges makes them better prepared to find life- from where each horse is individually. believes in those
long and forever homes. same principles. A
Hope for Horses maintains a presence in many team goal of
Anita Markiewicz, president and founder of venues promoting the greatness of retired race- providing excellent
Hope for Horses, is a Level II Centered Riding horses. We are active at our state’s horse expos care and training
instructor, a Certified CHA (Certified Horse- and fairs. As part of the California State Fair, creates a horse well
manship Associate) instructor, and has decades we showcase our teams in quadrilles and perfor- suited to be a forever
of experience in dressage and horsemanship. mances with several shows daily. partner to a new
By offering this experience and continuing to person and home.”
learn and grow, Hope for Horses helps our horses Educating the general public about our horses
become good equine citizens, ready to go into and how we help them learn a new life has FOUNDED: 2013
many different areas of equestrian life. brought many to join the equestrian community,
providing more homes for more horses. ADDRESS:
As an education-based facility, Hope for Horses 10576 Arno Rd.
Galt, CA 95632

PHONE: (916) 591-2481

MAIN CONTACT:
Anita Markiewicz

WEB ADDRESS:
hope4horses.com

SOCIAL:
hopeforhorsesCA
@hopeforhorses22
@hopeforhorsesca

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
32

PAGE 58 DAILY RACING FORM

Horse and Hound SANCTUARY
Rescue Foundation REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“We feel the TAA is
needed to provide
guidelines so that the
owners and trainers
responsibly retiring
Thoroughbreds and
the people looking
to adopt can have
peace of mind that
their horses will be
taken care of and
adopted to loving,
caring homes.”

Domain’s Rap, a stakes winner and multiple graded stakes-placed FOUNDED: 2016
earner of $880,000, and adopter Ciara Bowen.
ADDRESS:
Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation is then start on groundwork – some horses pick 2350 S. Midwest Blvd.
located on 50 acres in Guthrie, Okla. We have up on things right away, while others need a Guthrie, OK 73044
a great working relationship with Oklahoma little more time and attention. We allow the
owners and trainers. horses to tell us when they are ready to move PHONE:
on to the next step. We want to make sure we (405) 206-4689
When a racehorse is ready to be responsibly are restarting them at a pace that will help
retired from the racetrack, either the owner or them with their future. Our volunteers work MAIN CONTACT:
trainer calls and we accept the racehorse into with each individual horse so that we can help Nelda Kettles
our program. Just because a horse doesn’t do pair them with the right adopter and the right
well at the track doesn’t mean they will not experience level for both rider and horse. WEB ADDRESS:
succeed at another job. We have adopted horses horseandhoundrescue.com
that are now competing in eventing, dressage, To adopt one of these great horses, a poten-
jumping, hunting, barrels, search and rescue, tial adopter must complete an adoption appli- SOCIAL:
trail ranch work, and just being someone’s best cation on our website. We verify everything on horseandhoundrescue
friend. the application and check references and the
location where the horse will be kept. If local, AVERAGE NUMBER OF
Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation gives we ask each adopter to come out to meet the THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
each horse all the time it needs when it comes horses so we can make sure it is a good pairing. 100
into our facility. We slowly introduce each We, of course, love updates and pictures of our
horse to different size pastures so we know adopted horses in their new homes.
they will be safe in their outdoor setting. We

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 59

Illinois Equine SANCTUARY
Humane Center REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

The Illinois Equine Humane Center has been a rescue, rehab, and adoption facility since 2008. TESTIMONIAL:

The Illinois Equine Humane Center was jumping prospects. Potential homes are thor- “The advent of TAA
founded in 2008 specifically to address the need oughly vetted and inspected prior to adoption, is unequivocally
in Illinois to protect horses from cruelty, neglect, and the Illinois Equine Humane Center contract the single greatest
and slaughter. Illinois Equine Humane Center provides a lifelong safety net for horses adopted advancement toward
and its founders played a vital role in the closure through its program. Any horse adopted from providing proper
of the slaughter plant formerly operated in Illinois Equine Humane Center can be returned aftercare for
nearby DeKalb, Ill. to the organization, no questions asked, at any Thoroughbreds
point during its lifetime. whose racing careers
Since its inception, Illinois Equine Humane have ended. TAA’s
Center has rescued numerous horses of all While the vast majority of horses at Illinois support has made
breeds, including many Thoroughbreds, from Equine Humane Center are adopted into wonder- our work to re-home
undesirable situations, and has served as an ful homes, the organization also serves as perma- horses far less
outlet for responsible owners looking to place nent sanctuary to several former runners who, burdensome than in
their racehorses into good homes. due to special needs, are not suitable for adoption. years past, and also
has allowed us to
While in the care of the Illinois Equine In addition to accepting horses relinquished increase the number
Humane Center, former racehorses receive the by racing owners, the Illinois Equine Humane of Thoroughbreds we
rehabilitation needed before being retrained Center also works to rescue Thoroughbreds from are able to help.”
for new careers as pleasure, dressage, trail, or low-end auctions where horses are in peril.
FOUNDED: 2008

ADDRESS:
45W050 Beith Rd.
Maple Park, IL 60151

PHONE:
(815) 761-4937

MAIN CONTACT:
Gail Vacca

WEB ADDRESS: ilehc.org

SOCIAL:
ILequine
@HumaneCenter

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
20

PAGE 60 DAILY RACING FORM

Kentucky Equine REHABILITATION
Adoption Center RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

TESTIMONIAL:

“TAA’s support has
been critical to the
Kentucky Equine
Adoption Center and
has enabled us to
continue providing
high-quality care to
the Thoroughbreds
that need our help in
preparing for the next
phase of their lives.”

Matthew Dixon FOUNDED: 2007

Blueblend in the 2018 Retired Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover with Olivia Dixon. ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 910124
Some of the biggest names in racing threw earned $247,989, and finished third to eventual Lexington, KY 40591
their support behind the Kentucky Equine Hall of Famer Xtra Heat. Only able to produce
Adoption Center when it was founded in 2007. two foals, Winter Leaf eventually arrived at PHONE:
Among them were Racing Hall of Fame horse- KyEAC, and within four months a much differ- (859) 881-5849
men Chris McCarron and Nick Zito and noted ent, happier horse had found a new home.
owners and breeders Arthur Hancock and the MAIN CONTACT:
late Marylou Whitney. It has since provided KyEAC has three programs in addition to Karen Gustin
a much-needed service in finding homes for the general horse care that it provides: Take
unwanted horses of all breeds, although half the Reins Education Program, geared toward WEB ADDRESS:
the “herd” is generally Thoroughbreds. middle school students, teaching responsi- kyehc.org
ble horse ownership, how to give back to the
Situated on 70 acres near Nicholasville, Ky., the community, and become good citizens; Heads SOCIAL:
program offers a peaceful haven where equines Up Hearts Open Equine Growth and Commu- KentuckyEquineHumaneCenter
can relax, recover, and heal until their forever nication, which offers the horses at KyEAC to @EquineHumane
home is found. Incoming horses receive veteri- professionals conducting equine-assisted ther- @kyequinehumanecenter
nary care and individualized attention before apy, and training in leadership and supervi-
moving on to retraining, wherein qualified sion; and an internship program for university AVERAGE NUMBER OF
trainers work with them to establish a safe, solid level students. THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
foundation for the future. By contractual agree- 30
ment, no adopted animal can ever again be used A grant recipient from the ASPCA, the center
for racing or breeding. Adoption fees range from also has been supported by organizations
$150 to $1,500. such as Keeneland, Churchill Downs, Rood &
Riddle, Hagyard, Park Equine, the Kentucky
One of many success stories from KyEAC is Horse Council, Brennan Equine Welfare Fund,
that of Winter Leaf, a 1998 granddaughter of Equus Foundation, the Indiana HBPA, and
Mr. Prospector. Herself a three-time stakes Thoroughbred Charities of America, in addi-
winner, she won or placed in 18 of 24 starts, tion to the TAA.

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 61

Life Horse Inc. SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“The support of the
TAA allows
Life Horse Inc. the
means to assist
Thoroughbreds to
transition to a second
career. If a second
career is not in their
future, they will be
provided a safe
sanctuary and
retirement home
at Life Horse.”

FOUNDED: 1996

Joe Topper, Life Horse president, with Happy Tuesday, the farm’s oldest sanctuary resident. ADDRESS:
15117 Mud College Rd.
Thurmont, MD 21788

Life Horse Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organi- are eligible for monthly sponsorships to help PHONE:
zation located at Breezy Hill Stables in Thur- cover the cost of their care. (240) 674-3856
mont, Md. It provides services to all horse
breeds, including sanctuary, rehabilitation, and An open house is held annually where visitors MAIN CONTACT:
retraining for adoption. are welcome to meet and greet the horses. Visi- Joseph Topper
tors have the opportunity to learn about respon-
Horses come to Life Horse from area race- sible horse care and ownership. Horses available WEB ADDRESS:
tracks, auctions, owner surrenders, and unde- for adoption are used to show their versatility to lifehorsebreezyhill.com
sirable situations. Currently, Life Horse has two anyone considering this option.
dozen Thoroughbreds. Of those, 12 are sanctu- SOCIAL:
ary residents. For those uncertain or unfamiliar with horse LifeHorseInc
ownership, Life Horse offers an on-site leas- @lifehorseinc
New arrivals are assessed by a veterinarian, ing program. This program allows a potential
farrier, and dentist. The horse’s training level is adopter the chance to get to know the horse and AVERAGE NUMBER OF
evaluated by a trainer to ensure the horse has determine if adoption is something they want to THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
the best chance to find a suitable lifelong part- pursue.
ner. The horses are always welcome back for any 23
reason if necessary. Life Horse president and farm owner Joe
Topper has seen an increased need for safe long-
Life Horse welcomes volunteers to visit and term aftercare.
pamper our residents. Its oldest sanctuary resi-
dent is Happy Tuesday, 33. He made it known “Being a Thoroughbred owner myself, I just
that he was very attached to another elderly want to do my part to see that these horses are
Thoroughbred, also from a unsatisfactory situ- cared for after life on the track,” said Topper,
ation. He and his 25-year-old friend Steel Bulle who helps oversee the daily operation of the
have found sanctuary together. Rarely do we see farm. “Being located where we are with several
one without the other close by. Sanctuary horses tracks within about an hour’s drive, we feel like
we’re in a good location to help out.”

PAGE 62 DAILY RACING FORM

LoneStar Outreach REHABILITATION
to Place Ex-Racers RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Tom Reardon TESTIMONIAL:

Lone Star Outreach’s mission is to help older racing warhorses find second careers, while “TAA has been a
inspiring youth through horsemanship education. tremendous help to
LOPE! Thanks to its
“Every racehorse is waiting to be someone’s the American Association of Equine Veterinary support, LOPE can
special champion.” Technicians. commit to horses
that need longer-term
With that credo, LoneStar Outreach to Place Older stock, yearlings/weanlings, and brood- rehab and retraining.
Ex-Racers (LOPE) has done business in Texas mares are not accepted into LOPE, which accepts We can offer more
since 2003. Founded by Lynn Reardon, author of only off-the-track horses (of any racing breed) public education
the best-selling, award-winning book “Beyond voluntarily donated by their owners or trainers. programs to
the Homestretch,” LOPE is today one of the coun- Each is assessed as to its particular needs, then encourage OTTB
try’s leading organizations working with off-the- placed either into rehab or the academy (retrain- ownership. As a
track racehorses. ing) program. Horses cannot be adopted until TAA-accredited
their training regimen is complete. organization, LOPE
Established on the premise that horses need has attracted much
jobs, not pity, and that many ex-racers still have “For us, it’s an honor to work with such support and interest
much to offer – whether as trail horses, show tremendous athletes,” said Reardon, who had from new supporters.”
competitors, pets, or pasture companions – LOPE little equine background when she first visited
sees to it that they receive the attention required a racetrack backside and fell in love with the FOUNDED: 2003
to become “champions” in a post-racing world. heart, intelligence, and athleticism of the horses
she encountered. “I couldn’t believe that such ADDRESS:
Believing that a better-educated horse is less magnificent athletes could ever be at-risk, and I 901 Darden Hill Rd.
likely to be at-risk, and that a well-educated rider am honored now to help them transition into new Driftwood, TX 78619
makes the best adopter, LOPE provides individu- lives.
alized retraining of horses, along with lessons PHONE:
and clinics for people interested in adopting. “Every horse is special – and we believe that (512) 565-1824
LOPE also offers vocational training for at-risk every horse needs a vocation in order to be happy
youth, and is in an educational partnership with and true to its nature.” MAIN CONTACT:
Lynn Reardon

WEB ADDRESS:
lopetx.org

SOCIAL:
LOPETEXAS

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
12

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 63

LongRun Thoroughbred SANCTUARY
Retirement Society REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

Robyn McLean TESTIMONIAL:

Impressive Edge was adopted by Lauren Edwards after coming to LongRun in Canada. “We are most thankful
to TAA, whose
The relationship between Impressive Edge, first formal Thoroughbred retirement program funding enables
a graded stakes-placed runner, and Lauren in eastern Canada, has been very fortunate in LongRun to afford
Edwards typifies the close, loving bond that being given generous support from not only more of our deserving
develops between horse and adopter. Ontario’s racing community but also from both Thoroughbreds with
the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and Thor- a happy life after
Impressive Edge, a 2014 son of Harlan’s Holi- oughbred Charities of America. racing. In addition,
day, started 11 times, winning twice and placing TAA funding will help
third in both the Grade 3 Iowa Derby and Grade LongRun deals mainly with runners recently us continue and,
3 Peter Pan Stakes. He earned a total of $160,746 retired from the racetrack and has its main hopefully, expand our
before a minor tendon injury dictated his retire- office conveniently located on the backstretch equine-assisted
ment. He was sent to LongRun courtesy of owner of Woodbine racetrack near Toronto. LongRun’s therapy program HOPE,
NK Racing and trainer Roger Attfield. retirees were initially cared for by a number of which we launched in
sanctioned foster farms in and around the metro- partnership with
The $400,000 price he commanded as a 2-year- politan Toronto area but, thanks in large part the Woodbine
old at a sale in Florida speaks to both his beauty to a very generous bequest from the late Lana Entertainment Group.”
and talent. A wonderful mover, Impressive Edge Hershelle Sniderman, the bulk of our horses – we
impressed our great farm crew while undergoing generally care for 50 at a time – moved to a beauti- FOUNDED: 2000
basic retraining once his rehab was complete, ful 100-acre, 46-stall farm in Hillsburgh, Ontario.
and he quickly caught the eye of young horse- This centralization has made viewing of poten- ADDRESS:
woman Lauren Edwards, of Ottawa, Ontario, tial adoptees much easier. 555 Rexdale Blvd., P.O. Box 156,
who adopted him in January 2019. Edwards Toronto, Ontario, Canada M9W 5L2
reports that he is a barn favorite, loves cuddles, The farm with its large indoor arena enables
and that she couldn’t be happier with him. LongRun to hold equine-assisted therapy and PHONE:
educational programs in partnership with Wood- (416) 675-3993 ext. 1-3440
Impressive Edge is one of more than 1,000 bine and also serves as a public showcase for
retired Thoroughbreds that LongRun Thor- some of Ontario’s racing stars. These programs MAIN CONTACT:
oughbred Retirement Society has helped enjoy a not only help people experiencing challenges Wendy Muir
happy and dignified retirement, either through in their lives but also give a sense of purpose to
adoption, rescue, financial assistance, or third- those four-legged retirees whose age or infirmi- WEB ADDRESS:
party placements via networking, since being ties dictate a life of sanctuary at LongRun. longrunretirement.com
granted charitable status in 2000. LongRun, the
SOCIAL:
LongRunTB
@LongRunTB
@longrun_tb

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
80

PAGE 64 DAILY RACING FORM

Los Angeles Pet Rescue: REHABILITATION
Farralone Farm RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“TAA’s grant and
accreditation are of
tremendous value to
us. The grant check
is a blessing in doing
this beautiful work.
Accreditation also
serves to reassure
potential adopters
that we are a bona
fide organization. We
see TAA as partners
with whom we work
hand-in-hand to
retrain our OTTBs and
settle them into new,
rewarding careers.”

FOUNDED: 2008

Saskia Chiesa ADDRESS:
10856 Farralone Ave.
Rumors Ride and Sumthingsgottogive at Farralone Farms, the equine division of LA Pet Rescue. Chatsworth, CA 91311

PHONE: (310) 466-1185

Farralone Farms is the equine division of Los farrier care as needed. MAIN CONTACT:
Angeles Pet Rescue, an animal-welfare organi- Stallions generally will be gelded, teeth floated, Saskia Chiesa
zation that has saved everything from sheep and
mules to cats and guinea pigs. and vaccinations updated as these horses are WEB ADDRESS:
brought back to optimal health with plenty of farralonefarms.com
Founded in 2008 by Saskia Chiesa, a longtime good food and quality care. When ready, many
dressage competitor from The Netherlands, the will be schooled and retrained in preparation for SOCIAL:
farm is a peaceful facility located in Southern the next phase in their lives. farralonefarms
California’s San Fernando Valley. Farralone @farralonefarms
Farms deals in all breeds but has had notable Horses recently made available through
success with off-the-track Thoroughbreds. There Farralone Farms have included Grand Yule AVERAGE NUMBER OF
are 16 horses active in the program. and Cyber Sam, both rescues from a California THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
livestock auction. Grand Yule is a beautiful gray
According to Chiesa, “We are all about the four son of Grade 1 winner and sire Grand Slam and 16
Rs” – rescue, rehabilitate, retrain, and re-home. is out of a two-time Southern California winner;
Many of Farralone Farms’ horses have been Cyber Sam is a 25-year-old daughter of champion
plucked directly out of livestock auctions. They Capote out of a Mr. Prospector mare. Both Grand
are then brought to the Chatsworth-based facil- Yule and Cyber Sam eventually fell on hard
ity, where they are carefully assessed and reha- times before being sent to Farralone Farms as
bilitated, receiving R&R plus veterinary and future companion horses.

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 65

Lucky Orphans SANCTUARY
Horse Rescue REHABILITATION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

Jes Grey Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Tiger Tap, aka Spike, raced 16 times before being turned into a jumper. When he could no “Lucky Orphans is a
longer jump, he joined the herd of geldings at Lucky Orphans, where he is a visitor favorite. sanctuary that
provides lifelong care,
Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue was founded in more compassion-filled futures. and we are beyond
New York in 2008 as a non-breed-specific, no-kill The nonprofit organization is accredited with grateful for the work of
rescue, rehab, and sanctuary. the TAA, which helps
the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the provide assistance
Its goal is to “provide a haven for unwanted, Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, as well for 20 percent of our
abused, neglected horses, to improve the relation- as being certified with Equine Assisted Growth horse population.
ship between horses and people … and to properly and Learning Associations. With the latter, With the help and
unite humans and horses in a safe environment.” Lucky Orphans utilizes its rescue horses in help- support of the TAA,
ing those who suffer from mental, emotional, we can promise our
Today, the organization is home to more than physical, and/or developmental health issues, OTTBs the security of
50 horses, including 16 off-the-track Thorough- working with at-risk youth, and dealing with staying with their new
breds and an assortment of Quarter Horses, depression, anxiety, addiction, and self-injurious herd as long as they
Appaloosas, Arabians, Morgans, Welsh and Shet- behavior. During the mutually advantageous live.”
land ponies, minis, Paints, mustangs, and mixed process, horses and humans help one another.
breeds. FOUNDED: 2008
In addition to its noted horses-as-therapy
The backstories on many of these rescues are program, Lucky Orphans hosts a number of ADDRESS:
heartbreaking. They came to Lucky Orphans in summer riding academy sessions and provides 2699 Route 22
very poor condition and in need of a new start. year-round riding lessons with individual- Dover Plains, NY 12522
Lucky Orphans has worked successfully to bring ized attention. Education of adults and children
these horses (and even a few goats and sheep) is a key component of the work done at Lucky PHONE: (845) 416-8583
back from their physical and psychological inju- Orphans.
ries – thus offering them hope for meaningful, MAIN CONTACT:
Deanna Mancuso

WEB ADDRESS:
luckyorphanshorserescue.org

SOCIAL:
LuckyOrphans
@Luckyorphans
@Luckyorphanshorses

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
10

PAGE 66 DAILY RACING FORM

Maker’s Mark REHABILITATION
Secretariat Center RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Shawn McMillan TESTIMONIAL:

MMSC graduate Patrick Henry competing in show hunters with Melissa Murphy riding. “Hurrah to the TAA! Its
inspiring vision,
The Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center house 12 to 15 horses at a time and cannot do excellent management,
(MMSC), which has been hailed as “the gold long-term lay-ups. Once adopted, MMSC horses and stringent policies
standard in Thoroughbred reschooling,” are tracked for life to ensure their well-being. have raised awareness
opened in October 2004. about Thoroughbred
Potential adopters are required to fill out aftercare and provided
It uses its location at the Kentucky Horse applications and supply references and, once invaluable support to
Park in Lexington to do three things: approved, must come ride to make sure the fit organizations which
is a good one. Adoption fees vary based on the have been going
1) Promote the athleticism and versatility of length of stay, the extent of a horse’s limita- alone in this impor-
the Thoroughbred in second careers in order to tions, if any, and the scope of the horse. tant work, one horse
encourage adoptions nationwide; 2) educate the at a time. The MMSC
public about Thoroughbreds; and 3) highlight MMSC has an off-campus Clean Start is proud of its TAA
the many good things that the racing industry Program for horses that need rehabilitation, accreditation and very,
is doing to support aftercare. and a Noble Horse Program that lists horses very grateful for its
available for adoption directly from the farms support!”
MMSC horses are selected to be ambassa- on which they reside.
dors for the breed and the sport of racing. It is FOUNDED: 2004
not a rescue facility. Horses are selected based Keen to be a beacon of information about off-
on soundness of body and mind, temperament, the-track Thoroughbreds and racing, MMSC ADDRESS:
and serviceability. offers college and high school internships, 4089 Ironworks Parkway
welcomes volunteers, and regularly hosts Lexington, KY 40511
Horses in the program learn new skill tours and demonstrations.
sets using the Horse Centered Reschooling PHONE:
Program, a three-tiered system addressing “The Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center does (859) 246-3080
body, spirit, and mind, developed by MMSC everything right,” said former jockey Rosie
executive director Susanna Thomas, that gives Napravnik, “from horse care, to the horses’ MAIN CONTACT:
them a basic foundation on which to build a new new starts, to the staff’s amazing ability to find Susanna Thomas
career. Because the campus is small – 16 acres homes for them. The MMSC is all about excel-
of paddocks and eight stalls – MMSC can only lence, honesty and the horse!” WEB ADDRESS:
secretariatcenter.org

SOCIAL:
MakersMarkSecretariatCenter
@mmsc04
@MakersMarkSecretariatCenter

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

45

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 67

HMoidrsAetlaRnetsiccue SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Rough Coat Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Founded in 2002, MidAtlantic Horse Rescue has helped place close to 2,000 former racehorses. “TAA’s rigorous
accreditation process
“These horses are so intelligent and intuitive; feed lots, MAHR also transitions horses off the gives legitimacy to
they have so much to offer in second careers. It track, working closely with Maryland’s Beyond reputable aftercare
is the ultimate betrayal if they are thrown away the Wire program, and handling aftercare at programs. We are
when their racing careers are over.” Delaware Park in partnership with the track, honored to partner
owners, and trainers, and CANTER Delaware. with TAA and thrilled
This comes from former Delaware Park Horses are rehabbed as needed and all neces- that our industry
trainer Beverly Strauss, who in 2002 cofounded sary veterinary, farrier, and dental work is has stepped up to
MidAtlantic Horse Rescue with fellow horse- provided. Horses are evaluated under saddle support aftercare and
woman Virginia Suarez Cole in response to the and schooled until adopted out as sport or plea- ensure safe futures for
concern of slaughter. The pair had saved at-risk sure horses. MAHR also has horses available as our Thoroughbreds.
Thoroughbreds on their own for years and then pasture pets and companions. It has made our work
set up MAHR in an effort to do even more. here a bit easier. It’s
Adoption fees are well below market value, up all about the horse!”
Launched initially with three rescued off- to approximately $2,500 for a sound horse with
the-track Thoroughbreds and a rented five- no restrictions, and ownership is transferred FOUNDED: 2002
acre field, the program today hosts more than upon adoption. Safety and suitability are of the
45 horses at its main 158-acre farm in the hills utmost importance when matching horses and ADDRESS:
of eastern Maryland, plus three satellite farms adopters. Adopters have ranged in age from 9 to P.O. Box 407
in Maryland and South Carolina. This growth 70 and have included beginners and amateurs Chesapeake City, MD 21915
has been made possible by the support of the as well as top professionals.
TAA and other groups in the racing industry MAIN CONTACT:
and has been spurred by MAHR’s stellar repu- MAHR was one of a few programs to be Beverly Strauss
tation and successful retraining and adoption selected to participate in the initial $1 million
program. The horses are in different stages of ASPCA Rescuing Racers Initiative and has EMAIL:
rehab and retraining, and available horses can received annual support since. [email protected]
be seen and tried by appointment.
Tax-deductible donations of any amount are WEB ADDRESS:
Since its inception, MAHR has helped save, greatly appreciated, while tack, equipment, midatlantichorserescue.org
transition, and place close to 2,000 former race- office supplies, and gift cards are always on the
horses of all ages and abilities. In addition to wish list. Visitors are welcome by appointment SOCIAL:
purchasing Thoroughbreds from auctions and to tour the farm and meet the horses. MidAtlanticHorseRescue
@MidAtlHorseResq

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
120

PAGE 68 DAILY RACING FORM

Mitchell Farm SANCTUARY
Equine Retirement

TESTIMONIAL:

“TAA not only serves
as an accrediting
body, holding
facilities to the high-
est standards, it also
backs up excellence
with support. Funding
from TAA has allowed
Mitchell Farm Equine
Retirement to provide
OTTBs in our care
with the safe,
comfortable,
permanent sanctuary
they so deserve.”

Residents of Mitchell Farm Equine Retirement in Connecticut enjoy an afternoon of grazing. FOUNDED: 2004

Mitchell Farm Equine Retirement is a sanctu- the off-the-track Thoroughbred named Nijinsky ADDRESS:
ary for aged equines. Sun (aka “Walter”), a grandson of the great Nijin- 300 East Haddam Rd.
sky II who was unplaced in several starts during Salem, CT 06420
Founded in 2004 by current executive director the mid-1980s. Upon leaving the track, Walter
Dee Doolittle, the organization provides a perma- served more than 20 years as a beloved lesson and PHONE:
nent home for more than 20 older and often infirm show horse for children until earning his much- (860) 303-8705
horses of all breeds. deserved retirement at Mitchell Farm, where he
lived out the rest of life to the ripe age of 35. MAIN CONTACT:
The purpose of Mitchell Farm is not to retrain Dee Doolittle
or re-home, as the majority of program members The organization is fully accredited by the
are unrideable due to injury or advanced age. Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries in addi- WEB ADDRESS:
Each Mitchell Farm horse has its own stall and a tion to the TAA and has been recognized by such mitchellfarm.org
pasture to graze in Connecticut’s gorgeous Salem groups as Thoroughbred Charities of America, the
Valley. Doris Day Animal Foundation, and the Unwanted SOCIAL:
Horse Veterinary Relief Campaign. mitchellfarm.org
“Our equine retirees have earned their retire- @mitchell_farm
ment and will never be ridden again,” Doolittle Mitchell Farm is run largely by volunteers, @mitchell_farm
said. “Without the pressures of competition or who feed, groom, and care for the equine senior
bearing human weight, they are free to remem- citizens on a daily basis. The program also strives AVERAGE NUMBER OF
ber, or learn, what it means to be a horse.” to educate the public on animal-welfare issues THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
whenever possible. 5
Horses in the program must be a mare or geld-
ing at least 20 years old, pasture-sound, in veteri- Mitchell Farm’s annual music festival has been
narian-verified good health, and current on shots. a successful early-autumn fund-raiser.

One of Mitchell Farm’s best resident stories is of

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 69

New Beginnings REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Denise Kalfayan TESTIMONIAL:

Michelle Horgan on Bionda (left) and Nicole McKinley on Kegger at a local schooling show “TAA accreditation
preparing for the Retired Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover. will allow us to retrain
and re-home more
New Beginnings Thoroughbreds is a nonprofit their stalls. Each horse is different and requires horses. Over the past
Thoroughbred adoption program. Our founding different amounts of time to relax before begin- five years, we have
members have spent years retraining off-the- ning to work under tack. built a trustworthy
track Thoroughbreds for second careers. Our program that
team is all volunteer and unpaid. Our mission is New Beginnings has participated in a variety racehorse owners
to find loving adoptive homes for our horses once of activities with its adoptable horses to prepare and adopters can
they have retired from racing. them for their second careers. We have taken count on. We want to
some to the Pennsylvania Horse World Expo and be a go-to source for
New Beginnings receives horses either directly ridden them in demonstrations and with clini- those looking for an
from trainers or owners at various racetracks or cians. We also have participated in the Retired OTTB and feel that
through other adoption programs, working with Racehorse Project’s Thoroughbred Makeover for TAA accreditation
such organizations as TAA-accredited MidAtlan- four years with adoptable horses. validates this to help
tic Horse Rescue. We strive to retrain the horses us help more horses.”
for a second career that is best suited for them, We feel that exposing them to new situations
working to pair loving adoptive owners with our and taking them out to new places helps to FOUNDED: 2014
horses to ensure the best possible outcome for the prepare and transition them into their second
horse and adopter. careers. These events are wonderful outlets to ADDRESS:
showcase the versatility of the Thoroughbred 1064 Maxim Southard Rd.
We have a wonderful group of qualified volun- and have been instrumental in helping our orga- Howell, NJ 07731
teers and board members who work tirelessly to nization grow and assist our horses in their adop-
help us with the horses and to make the program tions. MAIN CONTACTS:
run smoothly. Nicole McKinley, co-director
New Beginnings relies solely on grants, dona- (732) 216-1364
Each horse that comes into New Beginnings is tions, and fundraising to support the horses in its Michelle Horgan, co-director
given time to relax and let down. The horses are program. Every dollar received goes directly to (732) 406-4036
introduced to turn-out and spend time away from the care and feeding of our horses.
WEB ADDRESS:
www.nbottb.org

SOCIAL:
New Beginnings Thoroughbreds
@nbottb

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
11

PAGE 70 DAILY RACING FORM

New Stride Thoroughbred SANCTUARY
Adoption Society REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Ti Amo Dora, adopted in August of 2015, with Laura White of Pemberton, British Columbia. TESTIMONIAL:

New Stride is a registered charity dedicated The experienced, knowledgeable team of volun- “TAA funding has
to finding adoptive homes and alternative teers and caregivers get to know the horses helped us continue
careers for Thoroughbred racehorses no longer before a retraining program begins from the our mission to take in
able to compete. ground up. Manners and control are assessed, and rehabilitate and/
then training continues in a program tailored or retrain horses on a
The charity was founded in 2002 at Hastings to each horse’s needs. Riding also progresses at regular basis. Being
Racecourse in western Canada by a group of a pace suited to each individual horse. accredited by TAA
concerned owners, breeders, and backstretch confirms to racehorse
workers who sought to provide opportunities Once the horse has mastered basic skills, he owners, breeders,
for dignified retirement for as many Thorough- is listed on the organization’s website as avail- trainers, and the public
breds as possible. able for adoption. our high standard of
care and dedication
New Stride has placed 169 Thoroughbreds The adoption process begins with an applica- to Thoroughbred
into adoptive homes and assisted many owners tion. Anyone wishing to adopt must visit and aftercare and
and trainers in connecting horses coming off spend time with the horse of his or her choice. placement. We are
the track with opportunities for new careers. Potential adopters are screened through the grateful to the TAA
application and in person. When a match is for its funding.”
New Stride offers assistance to Thorough- decided upon, an adoption contract must be
bred owners outside the racing community in signed, three equine-industry references FOUNDED: 2002
the form of information, advice, and free adver- produced, and a farm visit by a New Stride
tising of horses for sale on its website. representative must be conducted. ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 10020 RPO Otter Co-op
Horses coming into the program arrive at the The adopter must stay in touch with New Langley BC V4W 3Z5, Canada
main intake farm, where they spend a few days Stride for one year.
to a few weeks settling in while being assessed. PHONE: (778) 985-5673

MAIN CONTACT:
Carmen Kramer

WEB ADDRESS:
newstride.com

SOCIAL:
NewStrideThoroughbredAdoptionSociety
@NewStride
@2002newstride

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
15

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 71

New Vocations Racehorse REHABILITATION
Adoption Program RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“We are extremely
grateful for the TAA’s
support as it has
made it possible for
us to increase the
number of horses we
are able to help.”

New Vocations graduate My Pal Aimee competes at the New Vocations All-Thoroughbred Char- FOUNDED: 1992
ity Horse Show at the Kentucky Horse Park. In 2019, over 450 Thoroughbreds came from 23
states and Canada to compete in hunter, jumper, pleasure, dressage, and western competitions. ADDRESS:
New Vocations at Mereworth Farm
A pioneer in racehorse aftercare, New Voca- with a signed contract stating the horse cannot 719 Dolan Ln.
tions leads the nation in retired racehorse return to a racing career or be sold at a public Lexington, KY 40511
adoptions, having provided new careers and auction. New Vocations monitors each horse
homes for more than 7,000 Thoroughbreds and closely during the first year in its new home; PHONE:
Standardbreds since its inception in 1992. New the program offers a lifetime return policy (859) 252-9574
Vocations was the first charity to focus solely to ensure the horse always has a safe place if
on adoption rather than retirement as the needed. MAIN CONTACT:
optimal solution for the large number of race- Dot Morgan
horses leaving the track each year. The New Vocations Kentucky location
includes a state-of-the-art training and adop- WEB ADDRESS:
New Vocations works directly with owners tion facility situated on historic Mereworth www.newvocations.org
and trainers within the racing industry who Farm in Lexington. New Vocations at Mere-
need a reliable aftercare option. More than worth Farm is part of the Susan S. Donaldson SOCIAL:
half of the horses entering the program have Foundation’s 1,200-acre farm, making it the new.vocations1
an injury, ranging from minor soreness to nation’s largest racehorse retirement, reha- @NewVocations
fractures in need of repair. bilitation, retraining, and re-homing facility. @newvocationsracehorseadoption
Tours are available by appointment.
Rehabilitation has become a cornerstone of AVERAGE NUMBER OF
the program, which focuses on retraining and Over the past 28 years, New Vocations has THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
re-homing ex-racehorses. It has an average of seen a steady increase in demand tor retired 320
150 horses in its program at any given time. racehorses within the equestrian world.
These horses are in various stages of rehabili-
tation and retraining and are spread among “The homes are out there,” program director
seven locations in Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, Anna Ford said. “The more funding we raise,
Pennsylvania, and New York. The program the more horses we can rehabilitate, retrain,
takes in more than 500 horses each year. and re-home. New Vocations is totally depen-
dent on donations to fulfill its mission. We
Potential adopters undergo a thorough appli- are deeply grateful to all who have joined our
cation process, with nearly 1,000 individuals effort to provide these horses with a quality
screened annually. All horses are adopted life and career after racing.”

PAGE 72 DAILY RACING FORM

Oklahoma Thoroughbred SANCTUARY
Retirement Program REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“Assistance from
TAA has enabled
the Oklahoma
Thoroughbred
Retirement Program
to take in more
horses in need.”

Linda Earley Photography FOUNDED: 2007

Oklahoma-bred Loves Bonus, a stakes winner in New Mexico who raced until age 9, enjoys his ADDRESS:
well-deserved retirement at the Oklahoma Thoroughbred Retirement Program. P.O. Box 96
Blanchard, OK 73010
The Oklahoma Thoroughbred Retirement level claiming company before being discovered
Program was the 2007 brainchild of Royce Clay en route to an auction; and Prospective Kiss, a PHONE:
and Robin Brookins, Oklahoma horsewomen multiple stakes winner and earner of $432,956 (405) 590-2594
sharing a common concern and sense of respon- who ran through age 12 and dropped to a $2,500
sibility regarding the future of the state’s ex-race- claiming price before being happily reunited MAIN CONTACT:
horses. Adhering to the philosophy that charity with his breeder. Royce Clay
should begin at home, ever since the organiza-
tion’s launch 13 years ago, its focus has largely Among current Oklahoma Thoroughbred WEB ADDRESS:
been on rescuing, rehabilitating, retraining, and Retirement Program permanent retirees are otrp.info
adopting out horses with ties to the Sooner State. 27-year-old Highland Ice, a nine-time Remington
Park stakes winner and earner of $474,909 who SOCIAL:
An off-the-track Thoroughbred rescue and serves as the OTRP ambassador and makes regu- oklahomathoroughbredretirement
aftercare operation, Oklahoma Thoroughbred lar appearances at Remington; Valid Message,
Retirement Program takes in both injured and a multiple stakes winner of $364,167; and No AVERAGE NUMBER OF
sound ex-racehorses and offers permanent sanc- Advance, winner of the 2008 Oklahoma Classics THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
tuary for individuals who cannot be rehabbed for Juvenile Stakes and Remington Park champion 35
second careers. The organization, which charges 2-year-old male.
a flat $500 adoption fee, was also active in caring
for displaced horses following the deadly 2013 “A lot of people assume as a retirement
tornado in Moore. program, we take horses and put them out in a
pasture,” board member Chris Kirk said. “But
The program’s many success stories include many are in new careers as hunter-jumpers, cow
Oklahoma-bred Aisle Two, a stakes-placed horses on working farms … a little bit of every-
earner of $183,062 who had descended to low- thing.”

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 73

Old Friends SANCTUARY

Laura Battles TESTIMONIAL:

Fighting City Hall, who made more than 100 career starts while racing on the West Coast, “We are proud to be
earned a well-deserved retirement home at Old Friends in Georgetown, Kentucky. TAA-accredited. Know-
ing we have passed a
Old Friends, the Thoroughbred retirement such rock stars draw crowds, the revenue they rigorous inspection and
facility in Georgetown, Ky., has helped put a new raise supports hard-knockers like Easy Grades, investigation confirms
face on the concept of equine aftercare. a one-time Kentucky Derby contender who ended that we are providing
up struggling in cheap claiming races at the age the best possible
Founded in 2003 by former Boston Globe film of 10, and Fighting City Hall, a frequent Portland environment and care
critic Michael Blowen, the organization has Meadows and Emerald Downs contender, who for our valued retirees.
grown into a 236-acre sanctuary caring for more made 103 career starts. Obviously, the financial
than 200 rescued and retired horses. There’s even support enables us to
a satellite facility: Old Friends at Cabin Creek in In 2014, Old Friends was presented with a maintain those
upstate New York. Special Eclipse Award to honor extraordinary superior standards and
service in the sport of Thoroughbred racing. allows us to continue
Blowen had long believed that horses past their providing aftercare for
prime could still be valuable – money-earning, But perhaps the greatest reward of all has been even more horses in
even –­ if the venue was right. And so Old Friends the respect and support of the owners, train- need.”
tested the concept by opening its doors to the ers, and fans who not only donate to the cause of
public, inviting fans to come and visit their turf protecting these amazing athletes but come to the FOUNDED: 2003
heroes. And come they did. The farm attracts farm to pay homage to these beloved horses. Our
more than 20,000 visitors annually who come to guests may come to visit a few ex-racehorses, but ADDRESS:
swoon over such champions as Kentucky Derby they leave having been touched by the heart of a 1841 Paynes Depot Rd.
and Preakness winners Silver Charm and War Thoroughbred hero. Georgetown, KY 40324
Emblem, Belmont Stakes winners Touch Gold and
Sarava, three-time Santa Anita Handicap winner Old Friends offers guided walking tours daily, PHONE: (502) 863-1775
Game On Dude, multiple graded-stakes winner plus private tours and a founder’s tour are also
Einstein, New York superstar Diversify, and available (both upon request). Reservations are MAIN CONTACT:
warriors of the turf Hogy and Soi Phet. And while required and may be made at www.oldfriends- Michael Blowen,
equine.org or by calling (502) 863-1775. [email protected]

WEB ADDRESS:
oldfriendsequine.org

SOCIAL:
oldfriendsequine
@Oldfriendsfarm
@old_friends

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
200

PAGE 74 DAILY RACING FORM

OReutrirMemimesnt Haven SANCTUARY

Erin Shea TESTIMONIAL:

Dogwood Patty made 52 starts while racing for four years, earning $58,825, but now enjoys “The public needs to
living with the herd at Our Mims Retirement Haven. know that an elder
horse is not
Fifteen years have passed since the incor- The Haven always solicits volunteers to feed, necessarily a sick
poration of Our Mims Retirement Haven as a groom, assist farriers and vets, mow, and help or dying horse.
nonprofit. In that time, Haven creator Jeanne with general farm maintenance. Older horses can be
Mirabito has overseen the restoration of health vibrant, healthy, and
of many mares from disparate backgrounds. No Fans have traveled to Our Mims from all 50 sassy with the proper
matter where they came from or how they got states and 20 countries. Visitors are welcome care. TAA’s support
to the Haven, each mare that arrived has found by appointment to see the Haven’s residents allows us to
sanctuary in Paris, Ky., where love and attention and walk the cemetery, where almost all of the accomplish our
is doled out as freely as individualized veterinary Haven’s past horses have been buried. Each mission.”
and nutritional regimens. grave is marked with a stone and plaque indicat-
ing the horse’s name and birth and death dates. FOUNDED: 2004
Board members Cheryl Bellucci (also respon- In warmer months, beautiful flowers adorn the
sible for Haven fundraising) and Laura Fallis memorial garden. On May 7, 2017, the ashes of ADDRESS:
work with Mirabito to make sure the needs of the 1986 Eclipse champion older male Turkoman (son 2810 Millersburg Ruddles Mill Rd.
horses are met. of Taba) were interred in the cemetery. Paris, KY 40361

Today, the Haven is home to 10 Thorough- Farm residents have included Australian-born PHONE:
bred mares and one gelding – Elmhurst, the Princess Royale (who died at age 30); champion (859) 227-6304
1997 Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner and maternal Turkoman’s dam, Taba, who lived to 32; major
grandson of Our Mims. He arrived in 2011 and stakes producer Iza Valentine (33); Grade 1 stakes MAIN CONTACT:
now holds court with fans and visitors. Exciting winner Lotka (30); Alydar’s (and Our Mims’s) Jeanne Mirabito
Bucket is the oldest resident at age 31, with half of Grade 1-winning sister Sugar and Spice (27); and
the mares at Our Mims being 25 or older. nine-time stakes winner Bel’s Starlet (27). WEB ADDRESS:
ourmims.org

SOCIAL:
OurMimsRetirementHaven
@MimsRetirement
@mimsour

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
10

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 75

Out Side In SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

TESTIMONIAL:

“TAA has not only
provided us funding
to maintain and grow
our Thoroughbred
program, but it
also has served as a
testament to the way
we operate and care
for our horses. This
helps us to leverage
other funding
by giving donors
confidence in our
organization.”

Out Side In provides equine-assisted therapy to individuals of all ages. FOUNDED: 2011

Out Side In is a Thoroughbred rescue, reha- purpose in life. ADDRESS:
bilitation, and retraining program, and an In addition to the Thoroughbred program 12511 152nd Ave.
outpatient mental health facility that provides Grand Haven, MI 49417
equine assisted psychotherapy to individuals, and therapy programs, in 2014 the facility
families, couples, and groups. started its Heroes for Horses program for PHONE:
veterans with PTSD, and the veterans quickly (616) 844-0906
OSI’s licensed clinical therapists use horses discovered the parallels between the OTTBs
to treat people of all ages who suffer from and themselves. They both are transition- MAIN CONTACT:
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depres- ing into new lives and finding a new purpose. Jennifer McVoy
sion, anxiety, and myriad other mental and By pairing each veteran with his or her own
emotional disorders. assigned horse, it improved the quality of life WEB ADDRESS:
for the horses and veterans alike. outsideinstables.com
In equine-assisted psychotherapy, horses
are used to provide this unique form of treat- Veterans participate in the rehabilitation, SOCIAL:
ment. It was during a search for an additional retraining and eventual re-homing of the OutSideInStables
horse for the therapy program that Out Side horse, while at the same time working with a
In encountered its first off-the-track Thor- licensed psychotherapist to process through AVERAGE NUMBER OF
oughbred (OTTB). These horses were wonder- their own mental health issues. By combining THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
ful therapy partners because they are intelli- work with the horses and an indirect therapeu- 16
gent, responsive, and incredibly intuitive. This tic component, the veterans are more engaged
provided an opportunity to not only use horses and committed than in traditional psychother-
to improve the lives of people but also to help apy. Out Side In is a place where both people
these horses with a second career and a new and horses find hope and healing.

PAGE 76 DAILY RACING FORM

Peaceful Ridge SANCTUARY
Rescue REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Retired racehorses enjoying a relaxing morning grazing and socializing at Peaceful Ridge. TESTIMONIAL:

Peaceful Ridge Rescue is a nonprofit organiza- exception of part-time farm hands who help feed. “The support of the
tion that provides shelter, medical and dental care, Every donation goes directly to the needs of the TAA will help us
rehabilitation, and adoption services for rescued horses. continue to provide
horses. Its mission is to rescue horses from care for racehorses,
neglect, abuse, and abandonment; to improve Trained and dedicated volunteers feed, groom, especially the injured
their lives by providing a safe haven for healing clean stalls and paddock and help with general horses. We hope that
and rehabilitation; and to find a home for every maintenance and administrative work. the prestige of this
horse through a rigorous adoption program. accreditation will
PRR board members see the organization as a assist us in recruiting
Over the past eight years, PRR has rescued legacy. PRR’s educational programs are already additional experi-
more than 100 horses. When PRR cannot bring grooming rescuers of the future. enced volunteers and
horses into its facility due to capacity, it works to reduce our adoption
place them in proper homes through adoption, PRR accepts pasture pals and senior horses. turnaround time. What
and PRR also annually follows up on all adopted A recent arrival is stakes winner Mel Beach, a it has done for the
horses. PRR prohibits breeding of adopted mares Florida-bred gelding who made 38 starts during aftercare community
and all stallions are gelded before they are five seasons and earned $247,049. He is currently is extraordinary.”
re-homed. Horses can be returned at any time, in rehabilitation.
and they come back to PRR if the adopter can no FOUNDED: 2012
longer keep the horse for any reason. “He just loves to run,” said Laura Jones,
vice president of PRR. “We are happy to help ADDRESS:
PRR is 100 percent volunteer run with the him through his rehabilitation so he can enjoy 2995 SW 121st Ave.
running again ­– only this time it will be on fields Davie, FL 33330
of grass.”
PHONE: (954) 240-6080

MAIN CONTACT:
Laura Jones

WEB ADDRESS:
peacefulridgerescue.org

SOCIAL:
PeacefulRidgeRescue
@PRRhorses
@PeacefulRidgeRescue

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUIGHBREDS PER YEAR:
15

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 77

R.A.C.E. Fund SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“A national
accrediting body has
been needed for a
long time, and TAA is
fulfilling that need. It is
another safety net for
Thoroughbreds
to ensure that
organizations are
providing quality care
and adhering to a
strict code of
standards.”

R.A.C.E Fund has six participating farms in four states to provide services for retired horses. FOUNDED: 2004

The R.A.C.E. Fund, Pennsylvania’s first Thor- The R.A.C.E. Fund utilizes an intermediate ADDRESS:
oughbred retirement program, was founded in farm in Pennsylvania for temporary layovers and 8031 Rabbit Ln.
2004 by Patricia Bewley, Marlene Murray, and quarantine horses coming from auctions. In addi- Harrisburg, PA 17112
Diana Meyers, daughters of veteran trainer Art tion, it has six participating farms in four states
Kelley. Patricia and Marlene trained Thorough- where horses are sent for retraining, rehabilita- PHONE:
breds as well, and Diana worked as an exercise tion, or, if necessary, long-term retirement. (717) 469-2789
rider and pony girl. The acronym R.A.C.E. stands
for Retirement Assistance and Care for Equines. Mares adopted through the program may not MAIN CONTACTS:
be bred. Horses placed into new homes will be Marlene Murray
“The reason we started the R.A.C.E. Fund was monitored for life. Catherine George
not only to help Thoroughbreds after their racing
careers ended but also to bring awareness about Adopters are required to send photos every WEB ADDRESS:
the need for funding retirement, rehabilitation, three months and at the end of the year must racefund.org
and especially long-term care for sanctuary submit an Annual Records Report listing any
horses,” Murray said. “Although we do adopt out veterinary/farrier procedures that have been SOCIAL:
some horses, our main focus has been on rescu- done, including vaccinations, de-wormings, race.fund
ing auction-bound Thoroughbreds and horses trims, etc., and who provided those services. @RACEFund
that cannot go into a second career as they are at Participating farms also are required to send a
higher risk.” report for each R.A.C.E. Fund horse stabled at its AVERAGE NUMBER OF
facility. THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
Over the past 16 years, the R.A.C.E. Fund has
assisted with the retirement and/or rescue of Each year the R.A.C.E. Fund holds an online 11
more than 100 Thoroughbreds and racetrack auction to help raise funds, in addition to apply-
pony horses. ing for grants and receiving donations from indi-
vidual supporters.

PAGE 78 DAILY RACING FORM

Racing for Home SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Racing for Home’s co-founders, the mother-daughter team of Sherrie and Acacia Courtney, with TESTIMONIAL:
Brian Courtney, left.
“TAA accreditation
Racing for Home works to provide retrain- nut mare. Palace Diva was the catalyst to the has been a longtime
ing, re-homing, rehabilitation, and sanctu- formation of Racing for Home, which received goal for us, and it is
ary for off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTB). 501(c)(3) status in 2011. A long-time love for very exciting to be
Established by the mother-daughter team of horses, and Thoroughbreds in particular, honored with this
Sherrie and Acacia Courtney, Racing for Home combined with a desire to fulfill the sense of recognition. We are
takes each OTTB and evaluates them on a case- responsibility to our retired racehorses, turned grateful to TAA for
by-case basis and they are given individualized the operation into a full-time profession. recognizing the work
care by the organization’s experienced staff at we have done over
one of its two facilities in Connecticut. Since its inception, some 30 Thorough- the past 10 years,
breds have gone through Racing for Home’s and we are thrilled to
Some horses come directly from the race- program. Sherrie, an experienced rider and be able to continue to
track and can easily be retrained for a second horsewoman, works hands-on with Racing grow and expand –
career and adopted out to a new home with a for Home’s members on a daily basis along- all for the horses who
legal contract. Others may have sustained side trusted veterinary staff, barn managers, have given us every-
training or racing injuries, and are rehabili- and trainers. Acacia is a well-known racing thing.”
tated with careful veterinary surveillance and analyst and reporter in the industry, and
assessment, so that the proper placement can works to network OTTBs as well as create and FOUNDED: 2011
be decided. Finally, select OTTBs are provided maintain trusting relationships with horse-
sanctuary with Racing for Home, and given a men and women looking to retire their horses ADDRESS:
place to spend the rest of their lives after their or support aftercare initiatives. 155 Blake Rd.
days on the racetrack have ended. This indi- Hamden, CT 06517
vidualized approach is something Racing for The pair use social media to share photos and
Home prides itself on. updates of each of Racing for Home’s members MAIN CONTACTS:
and put an emphasis on keeping donors and Sherrie Courtney
It all started in 2009 when Sherrie and Acacia fans updated on the work they are doing daily, (860) 690-0689
adopted their first OTTB from the Suffolk as they continue to grow and give the highest Acacia Courtney
Downs backside, Palace Diva, a spirited, chest- quality care to their OTTBs. (203) 979-7569

WEB ADDRESS:
racingforhomeinc.com

SOCIAL:
racingforhomeinc
@racingforhome
@racingforhomeinc

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

11

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 79

Redwings SANCTUARY
Horse Sanctuary REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“Redwings Horse
Sanctuary is grateful
to TAA for its
generous support.
TAA has helped us
develop
and improve our
retraining program
and has enabled us
to provide sanctuary
and approved foster/
adoptive homes to
many off-the-track
Thoroughbreds.”

Ernest Shackleton enjoys his morning gallop in one of Redwings’s large community pastures. FOUNDED: 1991

Redwings Horse Sanctuary rescued its before being allowed to foster a Redwings horse. ADDRESS:
first horse in spring of 1991 after the Fresno A mandatory one-year foster period enables P.O. Box 58
Humane Society reported finding a young Redwings staff to keep a close eye on the foster 47240 Lockwood-Jolon Rd.
Thoroughbred with a fractured shoulder in an horses to ensure they are happy, healthy, and a Lockwood, CA 93932
auction yard. His registered name was Island good fit in their new homes. After 12 months of
Fighter, but the staff renamed him Sam, and successful fostering, a horse will become avail- PHONE:
after a long rehabilitation he made a full and able for adoption by its foster family. (831) 386-0135
successful recovery.
Redwings does not charge adoption fees and MAIN CONTACT:
Redwings Horse Sanctuary is now home to is always willing to take back a horse for any Sara Ruggerone
78 equines, including 13 Thoroughbreds, with reason. Those horses that are unadoptable due
21 other horses in foster homes. Redwings to age, illness, or injury are given a permanent WEB ADDRESS:
accepts all breeds, from the smallest mini to the home at the sanctuary in Lockwood, Calif. redwingshorsesanctuary.org
largest draft horse; it also accepts mules and
burros. The mission of Redwings is to rescue Redwings recently began a retraining SOCIAL:
abused or neglected horses, provide permanent program for off-the-track Thoroughbreds to redwingshorses
sanctuary or suitable foster/adoptive homes prepare them for second careers and also offers @redwingshorses
for those animals, and to eliminate the causes rehabilitation to horses retired from racing due
of equine suffering through education and to injuries. AVERAGE NUMBER OF
community outreach. THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
Redwings received a donor gift to purchase
Redwings has a foster-to-adopt program to acreage in Paso Robles, and it plans to move its 15
ensure that all of its horses go to approved and operation there in the future. A lot of work needs
loving homes. Prospective owners must fill out to be done to prepare the site, making it safe and
a foster applications and have a home inspection secure for all of horses, and Redwings looks
forward to finally having a permanent home.

PAGE 80 DAILY RACING FORM

Remember Me Rescue SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“Being a part of the
TAA has allowed us
to help more horses
than ever before. We
have expanded our
training capabilities
and our volunteer
programs. We also
have added a new
therapy program
to help rehabilitate
injured horses more
quickly.”

Terri Cage FOUNDED: 2008

Flying Open and Remember Me Rescue volunteer Mary Cage doing some round pen work. ADDRESS:
4100 Conveyor Dr.
Remember Me Rescue was started in 2008 with horses are started on the basics. Burleson, TX 76028
the mission to rehabilitate, retrain, and re-home Sometimes racehorses pick up a few undesir-
retired Thoroughbred racehorses. In the begin- PHONE:
ning, the main focus was to give owners and able habits at the track, which is why ground (817) 689-1214 (Donna Keen)
trainers a place they could trust to help find a work with the ex-racehorse is stressed and so (682) 647-5145 (Vicki Morgan)
safe place to retire their horses. Since then, the important. Remember Me utilizes a ground agil-
goals of Remember Me Rescue have expanded ity course to help horses learn new skills, gain MAIN CONTACTS:
because there are many other issues facing confidence, and become desensitized to many of Donna Keen, Vicki Morgan
retired racehorses, with the organization now the things that might startle the average horse.
helping in such areas as large-scale breeding WEB ADDRESS:
farm rescues and slaughter intervention. The horses are given every chance to have a teamkeen.com
successful second career by being taught basic
Remember Me Rescue is a 20-acre facility skills to help prepare them for the person who SOCIAL:
located in Burleson, Texas. It has a 20-stall can take them to the next level. REMEMBERMERESCUE
barn and a two-stall quarantine barn that was RememberMeOTTB
donated by Midwest Thoroughbreds. It also has Remember Me was one of the first organi-
several paddocks, a round pen, and riding areas. zations to successfully defend its adoption AVERAGE NUMBER OF
Horses at Remember Me receive the highest contract in court after an adopter defaulted on THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
quality of care while being prepared for the next the responsibility to which they agreed. Remem- 35
chapter in their lives. ber Me prides itself in not only giving horses
the best chance to be successful, but it is also
Upon entering the program, horses are eval- committed to following them after they are
uated for soundness and given the time they adopted and doing whatever is necessary to
need to rest or rehabilitate. They are weighed, ensure their safety.
measured, and have specialized nutritional
programs designed to benefit their individual When adopting from Remember Me, the
needs. They are evaluated for soundness and a adopter can be certain they are getting a horse
plan is put in place for their future. Once they that has been thoroughly evaluated by profes-
are ready to begin a retraining regimen, the sional trainers, properly vetted, and given the
basic skills to provide a successful lifelong rela-
tionship for their new owner.

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 81

ReRun Inc. SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

Fastidious never won in four starts on the track but now successfully competes in eventing. TESTIMONIAL:

ReRun Inc. is a renowned, pioneering organi- oughbred Breeders, and takes in more than 100 “Having the oversight
zation in Thoroughbred rescue and adoption, horses per year and boasts a low adoption return of TAA has allowed
having been founded in 1996 by Shon Wylie and rate of less than 2 percent. us to expand within a
Lori Nagle originally as a division of the Humane dynamically
Society of Kentucky. In 2016, ReRun received the Award of Merit changing industry
from Thoroughbred Charities of America. Veri- with more horses
Its mission ever since has been to retrain, fied by GFAS, ReRun also operates a sanctuary benefiting from our
reschool, and rehabilitate ex-racehorses and to farm in Maryland, home to one-time New York- services than ever
find them loving homes and new careers. The bred Turf Horse of the Year Dave and graded before. Providing
focus has been largely on horses coming directly stakes winner Marco Be Good. financial support
off the track, primarily those retiring from New along with national
York and East Coast tracks. The ReRun board has broad industry represen- recognition, TAA has
tation, its directors including a leading equine been invaluable to the
ReRun operates the premier facility in New orthopedic surgeon, a successful trainer, a turf efforts of those helping
York, a state-of-the-art facility with extensive journalist, and a top horse player. Thoroughbreds. TAA is
rehab capabilities – taking in and adopting out allowing more horses
more horses in the state than any other char- The 24-year-old organization works with part- than ever to turn for
ity. ReRun also offers equine-assisted therapy ner programs to assist as many horses as possible home.”
services to veterans via Saratoga Warhorse and and is sponsored by the New York Thoroughbred
to those in local hospice. Breeding and Development Fund, and supported FOUNDED: 1996
by donations from individuals and businesses.
Located in the Capital Region close to major ADDRESS:
tracks and interstates, ReRun has a capacity for ReRun also operates the nationally known 236A Waters Rd.
45 horses and is the permanent home of fan favor- “Moneigh” program. Moneighs are works of East Greenbush, NY 12601
ite Saratoga Snacks. art created by racehorses, both famous (such
as Zenyatta, American Pharoah, California PHONE: (859) 595-6660
It partners with New York Thoroughbred Chrome, Songbird, and Storm Cat) and the not-
Development Fund, the New York Thoroughbred so-famous, and their artwork is auctioned off, MAIN CONTACT:
Horsemen’s Association, and the New York Thor- with proceeds benefiting ReRun. Lisa Molloy

WEB ADDRESS:
rerunottb.com

SOCIAL:
rerunthoroughbredadoption
@ReRunOTTB

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
80

PAGE 82 DAILY RACING FORM

RVR Horse Rescue REHABILITATION

RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“Accreditation from
the TAA gives owners
and trainers peace of
mind that RVR Horse
Rescue will provide
the highest quality
care when it comes
to rehabilitating and
re-homing injured
horses. We are
proud to be affiliated
with TAA’s mission
to provide a secure
future for off-the-track
Thoroughbreds.”

Marji Lexton FOUNDED: 2004

Playful Preacher, who went through rehabilitation at RVR, is now with a loving family. ADDRESS:
12611 Hayes Clan Rd.
RVR Horse Rescue is an all-volunteer organi- In 2017, RVR was honored to become accred- Riverview, FL 33579
zation that provides rescue, rehabilitation and ited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and
re-homing to horses and donkeys in need. verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanc- PHONE:
tuaries. (813) 280-9299
From its beginning as a rescue serving the
Tampa Bay area, RVR is recognized and called While adoption into a loving home is the hope MAIN CONTACT:
upon by law enforcement agencies and other for every horse, there are no deadlines or expira- Lisa Gold
rescues throughout the state of Florida when tion dates for horses whose adoptability has been
horses need help. RVR volunteers have the dedi- lessened by age, health issues, or emotional chal- WEB ADDRESS:
cation and expertise to handle the worst cases lenges. No matter what the circumstance, RVR rvrhorserescue.org
of starvation, injury, and abuse, and are able to will provide top-notch care, along with a hefty
provide 24-hour critical care when necessary. dose of loving attention from volunteers. SOCIAL:
RVRHorseRescue
RVR recognizes that it is not only abused RVR is committed to enriching the Tampa @RVRHorseRescue
horses that need a second chance. The organi- Bay community through its love of horses. RVR @RVRHorseRescue
zation’s primary veterinarian is Richard Gold, offers educational programs for children, school
who works in the racing industry and has a and senior community visits, and hosts events at AVERAGE NUMBER OF
private practice. Affiliation with Dr. Gold enables the rescue for Scout troops and other groups. It is THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
RVR to maintain ties to the local racetrack and keenly aware that fostering engagement between
surrounding horse farms and connect with humans and horses increases the awareness of 10
owners and trainers when a horse’s career ends equine needs.
due to injury. Under Dr. Gold’s expert guidance,
RVR rehabilitates these injured racehorses to RVR Horse Rescue is a 501(c)(3) organization
provide them with a quality post-racing life. and its programs are supported by donations,
sponsorships, fundraisers, and grants.

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 83

Second Chance SANCTUARY
Thoroughbreds REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Naimark Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Hiclass Tenpin, who was adopted in 2017 by rider Makenna Walrath, competing at Second “Second Chance
Chance’s Thoroughbred Jubilee Benefit Horse Show in 2019. Thoroughbreds is
proud to be a
In September of 2011, Collette Duddy made her awards exclusively for Thoroughbreds at these TAA-accredited
first trip to the backside of the Finger Lakes race- shows. organization.
track and was in awe of the quality of the horses Accreditation means
and their bargain prices. Six horses traveled to Thoroughbreds are known for their athleti- national exposure
Second Chance Thoroughbreds in Spencer, N.Y., cism, willingness, and desire to please. Second among a group of
that year to be retrained and re-homed. Second Chance Thoroughbreds is proud to showcase nonprofits held to
Chance Thoroughbreds board members Duddy, those qualities when representing its horses in higher standards with
Robyn Null-Hancock, and Candace Kelly are all the community. rigorous requirements.
experienced horsewomen and volunteer their Accreditation also
skills to the organization. TAA accreditation is the gold standard in Thor- provides needed
oughbred aftercare, and its accreditation has funding that helps us
Besides retraining off-the-track Thorough- opened up more sponsorship opportunities for expand our mission
breds (OTTBs), we also teach riding lessons and our organization to provide the absolute best care and allows us to rehab,
run a summer horsemanship program for youth. for our beloved Thoroughbreds while they await retrain, and rehome
We attend community events such as parades, their forever home. more Thoroughbreds
school programs, and local horse events. We into new careers.”
demonstrate how versatile and trainable Thor- Now in our seventh year, our mission remains
oughbreds are. Hosting two horse shows a year the same: to provide OTTBs with a soft landing FOUNDED: 2012
provides added funds to our budget, and with the after the end of their racing careers by giving
sponsorship of The Jockey Club Thoroughbred them ample rehabilitation and retraining, transi- ADDRESS:
Incentive Program, we offer classes and hig-point tioning them to a new career. Thoroughbreds are 121 Dawson Hill Rd.
known for their athleticism, heart and desire to Spencer, NY 14883
please. Ride an OTTB today!
PHONE: (607) 589-7669

MAIN CONTACT:
Collette Duddy

WEB ADDRESS:
secondchancethoroughbreds.org

SOCIAL:
SecondChanceTBs
@SecondChanceTBs
@SecondChanceTBs

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
11

PAGE 84 DAILY RACING FORM

Second Stride REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Kentucky-based Second Stride has placed hundreds of former racehorses into new homes. TESTIMONIAL:

Second Stride is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, colts and stallions and take in and rehabilitate “The support of
nonprofit organization founded in 2005 to horses who have been injured. Second Stride TAA has allowed
provide professional rehabilitation, retraining, breaks unraced horses to ride and even restarts Second Stride to
and placement for retired Thoroughbred race- retired broodmares under saddle so they may increase the number
horses in qualified homes so that they may reach have a productive career after breeding. of horses we care
their full potential in a productive second career. for. Through the TAA
Second Stride donors have included such application process,
Second Stride is based on volunteer advisers, high-profile racing names as Hall of Fame evaluations, and site
board members, and individuals who are active trainer Carl Nafzger, Claiborne Farm, Taylor visits required for
in other areas of the racing industry, including Made Farm, and Lane’s End. Second Stride also accreditation, our
owners, partnership managers, handicappers, receives support from regional racetracks, train- administrative proce-
and trainers. ers, horsemen’s organizations, many local busi- dures improved with
nesses, and individual horse lovers from all over. TAA feedback. This
Second Stride has placed hundreds of horses process helps ensure
in new homes over the years. Success stories A Kentucky Derby Week party is held each the best ongoing care
include many retired sound “war horses” with spring in Louisville to benefit Second Stride, for horses, donors,
more than 50 racing starts, and also many stakes complete with live and silent auctions and celeb- and adopters.”
winners. rity guests.
FOUNDED: 2005
Adoption fees typically range from free to Second Stride participates in several other
approved applicants to up to $2,500 for horses community-based fundraising events through- ADDRESS:
ready to compete in sports such as hunters, show out the year and applies annually for several 7204 Highway 329
jumping, and eventing. prestigious grants that have rigorous application Crestwood, KY 40014
processes.
Second Stride is able to castrate and socialize PHONE:
(502) 241-8440

MAIN CONTACT:
Susan Brown

WEB ADDRESS:
secondstride.org

SOCIAL:
secondstride
@secondstride
@secondstride

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
150

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 85

Second Wind SANCTUARY
Thoroughbred Project REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

A young rider after an enjoyable lesson on an off-the-track Thoroughbred mare named Fledge. TESTIMONIAL:

Second Wind Thoroughbred Project’s Since Eldredge is a USEF-licensed hunter/ “We are committed
founder and president, Dayle Eldredge, has jumper judge, the focus of Second Wind is to continue our top-
been retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds retraining for that discipline, but Northern quality horse care,
since she was a teenager. She estimates she has Virginia riders are a diverse group, and people and financial assis-
retrained and sold some 75 Thoroughbreds. are interested in horses for fox hunting, event- tance from the TAA
When she heard about the TAA, she decided to ing, and polo as well. We felt the adoption makes this possible.
form a nonprofit so she could help more horses network in Virginia would be more broad than We can proudly tell
after their racing days are over. it was in Florida. potential grantors that
we are an accred-
Second Wind offers rehabilitation, retrain- We are fortunate to be in such a horse- ited program with
ing, adoption, and permanent retirement. focused community, and have been made to the highest indus-
About half of its horses are retired and half feel very welcome. Volunteers have been eager try standard, and
are being retrained. We are very proud of the to help. Some volunteers are “horse people,” this enables us to
horses that have gone on to new homes – they and others come from the city to be near the enhance our fundrais-
are loved by their owners and are being ridden horses and help with grounds maintenance. ing efforts to expand
as show hunters, jumpers, dressage, or plea- the program to help
sure mounts. Our potential adopters are thor- Second Wind is close to Charles Town race- OTTBs.”
oughly screened. track in West Virginia, as well as the newly
reopened Colonial Downs near Richmond, Va. FOUNDED: 2015
Eldredge started Second Wind in Ocala, Steeplechasing and point-to-point races are
Fla., with her mother and a lifelong friend who popular in the area, and there are hundreds of ADDRESS:
also had owned and competed on Thorough- Thoroughbred breeding farms in Virginia. 1405 Kennel Rd.
breds. In 2019, the operation moved to North- Boyce, VA 22620
ern Virginia, and leased a 60-acre farm that The board of directors is a dedicated group of
includes 50 acres of lush grass in several large mature women made up of a horse show judge, PHONE:
fields with oversized run-in sheds and a beau- steward, equine vet, Reiki master, competitive (910) 986-8725
tiful vintage barn. The farm is located in the amateur hunter/jumper rider, and a farrier.
heart of Virginia horse country, near Middle- We are all proud of this aftercare program, MAIN CONTACT:
burg, an hour from Washington, D.C. and love working with these deserving, amaz- Dayle Eldredge
ing Thoroughbreds.
EMAIL ADDRESS:
[email protected]

WEB ADDRESS:
secondwindtbs.org

SOCIAL:
secondwindthoroughbredproject
@secondwindthoroughbredproject

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

12

PAGE 86 DAILY RACING FORM

South Florida SPCA REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Never Lie, who raced at Calder, was left at South Florida SPCA’s facility in the middle of the “The importance of
night. She has undergone professional retraining and is succeeding in a new career. TAA’s support cannot
be overstated. The
Founded in 1992, South Florida SPCA Horse prevent their horses in transition from falling funds we receive
Rescue is the last line of defense for abused and through the cracks and into peril. allow us to save
abandoned horses in Miami-Dade, Fla. more horses, while
South Florida SPCA is also dedicated to educat- the rigorous
South Florida SPCA is the only organization ing the public and promoting the humane treat- accreditation
qualified to rescue, rehabilitate, retrain, and ment of equines through its outreach, member, standards give
re-home horses in Miami-Dade. South Florida and volunteer programs, as well as its social SFSPCA the
SPCA works with Miami-Dade Animal Services media channels. Events such as its “A Day at the credibility and respect
and responds 24/7 to local law enforcement to Races” fundraiser at Gulfstream Park, with a required by important
investigate cruelty and abandonment cases, and portion of race sponsorship proceeds benefiting donors and
to seize and care for those victims at its facility in the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, also potential adopters.
Homestead, Fla. help raise awareness. The value of
relationships created
The horses South Florida SPCA rescues, includ- South Florida SPCA rescues all breeds, but its and strengthened by
ing off-the-track Thoroughbreds, are sometimes Thoroughbreds are among the most dramatic our TAA accreditation
found in some of the worst conditions imaginable. and gratifying transformations and transitions. is incalculable.”
Often, the horses require extraordinary life- South Florida SPCA grads have won ribbons in
saving measures involving extensive veterinary local shows, participated in the Thoroughbred FOUNDED: 1992
treatment, a refeeding program, and intensive, Makeover, and maintained public safety in a
specialized labor by staff and volunteers. mounted police unit. ADDRESS:
Homestead, Fla.
The organization also works with Thorough- Their resiliency and versatility never cease to
bred owners, breeders, and trainers to help amaze and inspire. PHONE:
(305) 825-8826

MAIN CONTACT:
Chris Septer,
executive director

WEB ADDRESS:
spca-sofla.org

SOCIAL:
southFloridaSPCA
@HelpTheHorses
@spca_sfla

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

10-15

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 87

Southern California SANCTUARY
Thoroughbred Rescue REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Laurie Taylor Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Just Fishin (aka Justin), with Jessica Abbott of Showcase Training Stables, competing at the “TAA has initiated
Thoroughbred Classic at Galway Downs in Temecula, Calif. significant
improvements in our
Southern California Thoroughbred Rescue stakes winner Place Cowboy, now training protocols and practices
provides a safety net for Thoroughbreds of as an eventer; Persistent, who once sold for through its accreditation
all ages and backgrounds who have run out of $120,000; and Free Sammy, who brought $77,000 process. It also represents
options. as a 2-year-old. All were acquired from Southern an invaluable source of
California livestock auctions. grant monies through
Started in 2008 by Caroline Betts, SCTR has funds raised from within
helped more than 100 horses in need, most taken Prospective new homes are carefully the racing industry for
directly from livestock auctions. SCTR repre- screened, and most program horses are adopted sanctuary care of our
sentatives attend local auctions to identify Thor- out to experienced riders or those with quali- Thoroughbreds.
oughbreds potentially at risk. Rescues are made fied trainers. The adoption contract provides This has freed us to
based on need rather than adoptability or ride- lifetime protection – adoptees may not be resold dedicate fundraising,
ability. or transferred by adopters but must return to donations, and other
SCTR. grants to improvements
The SCTR philosophy is that all Thorough- in rehabilitation,
breds are winners, regardless of pedigree, Rescues can only be achieved when space and retraining, and adoption.”
performance, or physical condition. Once funds are available, thus the need for income is
acquired, horses undergo a minimum of 30 days ongoing. All donations are welcome, and horse FOUNDED: 2008
of quarantine at a facility in Apple Valley, where sponsorships range from $10 to $250 per month.
they are handled, evaluated for health, and ADDRESS:
given necessary veterinary and farrier care. Prominent equine artists such as the late P.O. Box 5
Many will then be “re-started” by a professional Fred Stone and the late Christine Picavet have Norco, CA 92860
trainer. SCTR has about 18 Thoroughbreds, donated proceeds from their work, while the
ranging in ages from 5 to 26. organization has received support from Blue PHONE: (951) 768-2043
Horse Charities, ASPCA, The Exceller Fund,
Past and present SCTR horses have included and Thoroughbred Charities of America, as well MAIN CONTACT:
a daughter of the great Alleged; Santa Anita as the TAA. Jackie Poe

WEB ADDRESS:
sctbrescue.org

SOCIAL:
socaltbrescue
@socaltbrescue
@socaltbrescue

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
18

PAGE 88 DAILY RACING FORM

Square Peg Foundation SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

Robyn Peters TESTIMONIAL:

Kemma Peters with Extra Fifty, by Afleet Alex, left, and Irresponsible King, by Kingmambo. “When I am on my
horse, only God is
Square Peg Foundation was established in 2004 of character, a unique example of gentleness and taller than I.”
as an adaptive riding program for children with power who responds to all people according to – Spanish proverb
learning and/or developmental disabilities such their intentions – not to their age, size, race, or “That’s the
as autism, ADHD, and Tourette’s Syndrome. social status. We focus on building self-image, empowerment Square
one student at a time.” Peg horses give
The innovative organization, headquartered autism families. When
in Half Moon Bay, Calif., offers a creative, heal- The 22 Square Peg horses, ranging in age from a mother hears her
ing approach to teaching students and training 3 into their 30s, found their way to the program silent child laughing,
horses based on mutual need – the horses, some in need of second – or third – chances. Many are you have changed
of whom were rescued from undesirable circum- Thoroughbreds who have been integrated into the world for that
stances, benefit as much as the people involved. this adaptive horsemanship program for chil- family. TAA’s
dren, among them stakes-placed Momotombo; commitment to
Square Peg’s simple but powerful mission state- the aptly named Autism Awareness; Irrespon- aftercare brought
ment is: “We turn ‘I wish’ into ‘I can.’ ” Children sible King (aka “Stanley”), a royally bred son these horses a
learn to ride and care for animals much larger of Kingmambo and grandson of champion Eliza second chance.
than themselves and in the process become advo- who knows tricks in addition to jumping, trail What they give in
cates for those who have no voice, thus gaining a riding, and performing dressage; and Mythical return is priceless.”
sense of confidence and empowerment. Storm, a son of Fusaichi Pegasus who raced in
Southern California and won at Santa Anita in FOUNDED: 2004
Executive director and co-founder Joell his debut.
Dunlap described Square Peg as providing a ADDRESS:
“yes” environment, “an intense experience that Square Peg offers specialized private or group PMB 402, 80 Cabrillo Hwy North
shows students they are capable of so much more classes for basic riding. Suite Q
than they imagined. The horse is a gentle judge Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

PHONE: (650) 440-5064

MAIN CONTACT:
Joell Dunlap

WEB ADDRESS:
squarepegfoundation.org

SOCIAL:
everyonefits
@SquarePegRanch
@squarepegfoundation

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
15

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 89

Susan S. Donaldson SANCTUARY

Foundation/Mereworth Farm

TESTIMONIAL:

“The Susan S.
Donaldson
Foundation strives
for excellence in
all aspects of its
aftercare operation
and is proud to be
recognized with TAA
accreditation. The
TAA is an outstanding
resource for providing
the best care possible
to the Mereworth
Farm residents.”

EquiSport Photos FOUNDED: 1989

Thoroughbreds enjoy the paddocks of the 1,200-acre Mereworth Farm in Lexington, Ky. ADDRESS:
4999 Bethel Rd.
Mereworth Farm was established in 1924 by permanent home in their final years. Lexington, KY 40511
Walter Salmon Sr., a New York real estate devel- The credit for implementing Susan Donaldson’s
oper. It has a storied history of remarkable breed- PHONE:
ing and racing success in the Thoroughbred vision goes to the farm manager, James T. Boyd, (859) 552-7118
industry under the direction of three generations and the loyal employees, most of whom worked
of the Salmon family. for her for many years and understand exactly MAIN CONTACT:
what she wanted to create. They, too, share her James T. Boyd
Salmon’s granddaughter Susan Salmon love of horses.
Donaldson was the last to operate the Lexing- AVERAGE NUMBER OF
ton, Ky., farm commercially, and upon her death It is the belief of The Susan S. Donaldson Foun- THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
in 2011 she bequeathed Mereworth Farm to a dation that Thoroughbreds should be retrained
foundation she created in 1989 for the purpose of and re-homed if at all possible, and there are 120
providing care to horses that otherwise would be many fantastic organizations accredited by TAA
euthanized. which do exactly that. But many of those facili-
ties are not equipped to provide a permanent
Since 2011, The Susan S. Donaldson Founda- home for those horses that cannot be retrained
tion has worked tirelessly to restore and upgrade and re-homed.
Mereworth Farm to best achieve her goals. All
the pastures and paddocks have been renovated, It was Susan Donaldson’s desire to create a
all fencing has been replaced, and the seven barns facility that could house and care for those horses
have been rehabbed. The 1,200-acre Mereworth that cannot be retrained, whether due to age or
Farm is a first-class equine operation, designed injury.
to provide the finest care to horses needing a
Thanks to her generosity and the devoted staff,
Mereworth Farm is such a place.

PAGE 90 DAILY RACING FORM

The Exceller Fund SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“In addition to
bringing together
several dedicated
organizations, TAA
has been extremely
instrumental in
expanding
aftercare awareness
and support
throughout the
racing industry.”

The Exceller Fund’s horses enjoy retirement at approved facilities located in five states. FOUNDED: 1997

In the beautiful springtime of 1997, American their support. Approved facilities in five states ADDRESS:
Hall of Fame champion Exceller was led to his have been selected for the quality of their care P. O. Box 4237
death in a Swedish slaughterhouse. Five months in various areas, including rehab from injuries, Lexington, KY 40544
later, a group of concerned racing fans came retraining, and dealing with geriatric cases.
together to form an organization they hoped EMAIL CONTACT:
would make a difference in saving other Thor- A major campaign called “Racing Warriors” [email protected]
oughbreds from that dark fate. They would call it has focused on hard-raced runners with 50 or
The Exceller Fund. more career starts who are no longer competi- MAIN CONTACT:
tive, horses The Exceller Fund describes as the Nicole Smith
The Exceller Fund has since become one of the “unsung heroes of racing.” Because of wear and
best-known, most proactive horse-rescue agen- tear from long years on the racetrack, many WEB ADDRESS:
cies in North America, having worked – some- simply have no future as riding horses, so The excellerfund.org
times in conjunction with other nonprofit rescue Exceller Fund networks to provide these perma-
groups – to provide a future beyond the finish line nent retirees sanctuary for life. SOCIAL:
for innumerable ex-racehorses and to transition TheExcellerFund
them into successful second careers. The Lexing- Current “Warriors” include Cumberland @ExcellerFund
ton, Ky.-based organization today has a nation- Gap, Korbyn Gold, and Ww Conquistador, who
wide membership, with monthly pledges begin- together raced a combined 31 seasons, made 365 AVERAGE NUMBER OF
ning as low as $15. It is also supported by grants, starts, and earned nearly $1.3 million. All three THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
tax-deductible donations, and money garnered had descended to bottom-level claiming races 50
through major fundraisers. before finding their forever homes with The
Exceller Fund.
The Exceller Fund population, generally
between 45 and 50 horses, boards at private farms, The organization also provides sanctuary for
with a per diem paid through the organization for horses with low adoption potential, as well as
helping to re-home them.

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 91

The Foxie G Foundation SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

TESTIMONIAL:

“Thanks to our
accreditation by the
TAA in 2016, we
have been able to
help more horses
each year find
adoptive homes. The
TAA also has offered
us resources to
improve our
organization, access
to a larger donor
base, and prospec-
tive adopters.”

Doctor Doss, a winning son of Hard Spun, is in The Foxie G Foundation adoption program. FOUNDED: 2012

The Foxie G Foundation was established to Although entry into the facility is not based ADDRESS:
honor the memory and zest for life of a charis- on success on the track, The Foxie G Foundation 14024 New Windsor Rd.
matic racehorse named Foxie G. has a few well-known residents. Ravalo, a graded Union Bridge, MD 21791
stakes winner of $1,348,769, and Fireside Brass,
Foxie G was graded stakes-placed and a multiple a multiple stakes winner of $444,993 in 89 starts, PHONE: (301) 667-2553
stakes winner of $392,568. After suffering from a are two of the 38 permanent retirees.
severe case of laminitis while in training, the MAIN CONTACT:
Maryland-bred son of Horatius was able to enjoy Foxie G relies on donations and sponsorships to Laurie Calhoun
his retirement at Summer Wind Farm in Union provide the retirees with the care they deserve.
Bridge, Md., where the organization is based. WEB ADDRESS:
Foxie G seeks permanent, adoptive homes for thefoxiegfoundation.org
Recognizing that some retired Thoroughbreds those horses that can be adopted out. Since Foxie G
do not have the option for a place to retire or be is based on a commercial Thoroughbred farm, SOCIAL:
trained for a second career, The Foxie G Founda- the organization is able to provide rehabilitation TheFoxieGFoundation
tion was formed to help others like its namesake. or retraining for a horse after it is finished racing. @TheFoxieG
@TheFoxieG
While the primary goal for horses entering When a horse is ready to enter into the
the program is adoption, some are not deemed program, it is evaluated under tack and care- AVERAGE NUMBER OF
adoptable due to physical limitations or age and fully matched with the right adopter. THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
are provided permanent retirement on the farm.
Beginning in 2018, some of the permanent retir- Many of the adopted horses go on to a show 84
ees have been used in various equine therapy career, while some are content to just become a
programs that benefit the horses as well as the member of their new adopted family. Any horse
program participants. adopted out by The Foxie G Foundation can
return to the farm at any time for any reason.

PAGE 92 DAILY RACING FORM

Thoroughbred Athletes SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Arden Moad TESTIMONIAL:

Zee Oh Six, the 2005 Oklahoma-bred horse of the year at Remington Park who retired after “Accreditation of our
earning $442,311, now competes in English dressage, hunter/jumper, and cross-country events. organization has
definitely helped us
Established in 2011 by former racehorse trainer racehorses are capable of success at a variety of further our mission.
Lynn Sullivan, Thoroughbred Athletes is a tasks. The organization is a leader in expanding The TAA accreditation
Thoroughbred retraining facility for both the demand for ex-racehorses by virtue of its very seal documents our
donated and rescued horses. successful adoption program as well as host- legitimacy to grantors
ing multiple well-attended horse shows, which and donors as well
Since its inception, more than 170 horses have provide a venue for showing off the skills of their as potential
been part of the program, and more than 150 have graduates. adopters. They know
been adopted into new homes. that the facility has
Thoroughbred Athletes is staffed by a group of been inspected
Many Thoroughbred Athletes “graduates” dedicated, hardworking volunteers. The board of and that business
are successfully competing at high levels in a directors is a diverse group that meets monthly. practices have been
variety of disciplines. They are known for being closely examined to
tough, athletic, willing, and always ready to Thoroughbred Athletes mentors community ensure that it is being
move forward. A number have been adopted as youth by offering supervised learning opportu- run in a professional,
pleasure horses and are proving to be eager trail nities. Additionally, a “work-to-ride” program for efficient manner.”
mounts. Thoroughbred Athletes also has been horse-savvy adults is available.
successful at finding pet or companion homes for FOUNDED: 2011
horses not sound enough to be ridden. The orga- Thoroughbred Athletes is recognized as a top
nization’s Facebook page is full of photos from charitable organization, having been honored ADDRESS:
proud and loving owners. with the Top-Rated Award by GreatNonprofits as 2851 S. Midwest Blvd.
well as being endorsed by GiveSmart Oklahoma Guthrie, OK 73044
Thoroughbred Athletes is proving that retired and receiving gold status from GuideStar.
PHONE: (405) 802-1312

MAIN CONTACT:
Lynn Sullivan

WEB ADDRESS:
thoroughbred-athletes.com

SOCIAL:
ThoroughbredAthletes
@TBAthletesInc
@ThoroughbredAthletesInc

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
50

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 93

PThlaocreomugehnbt rReedsources SANCTUARY
REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

Katherine Turnbull Photography TESTIMONIAL:

Kimberly Godwin Clark, executive director of TPR, with retired racehorse Sand Save, who “Being accredited by
started 19 times, never finished in the money, won only $519, but earned a dignified retirement. the TAA has given
Thoroughbred
Thoroughbred Placement Resources was ing program, with many launching successful Placement Resources
established in 2008 by hands-on horsewoman second careers as eventers, show jumpers, and and the horses we
Kimberly Godwin Clark and her husband, dressage performers. And while most “gradu- serve so very much.
William Clark, and is based at Leighton Farm ates” were themselves unremarkable racehorses, The credibility makes
in Upper Marlboro, Md. there have been exceptions, among them Grade 3 us a stronger
winner Foufa’s Warrior, who finished seventh in organization, and the
A licensed trainer and exercise rider with the 2003 Preakness and later became bored with funding allows us to
more than 25 years of experience, Kimberly retirement; $505,591-earner Barcola, third to assist many more
Clark has since been dedicated to providing champion Curlin in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster; horses. This is a good
ex-racehorses with bright futures while retrain- and multiple stakes winners Frisky Spider and platform for our
ing them for second careers. Network. organization to
expand and grow
The organization advocates on behalf of off- It is known that animals possess therapeutic upon.”
the-track Thoroughbreds while directly assist- healing qualities, thus in 2015 Thoroughbred
ing owners and trainers in appropriately placing Placement Resources launched “Hero Horses,” FOUNDED: 2008
horses whose racing days are over. Education bringing military veterans to Leighton to inter-
has been a significant component of Thorough- act with the Thoroughbreds. In some cases, both ADDRESS:
bred Placement Resources’s work – informing the human and equine need to rebuild lives and 13130 Molly Berry Rd.
public and prospective owners as to the advan- learn to trust again. “Everybody wins with this Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
tages of ex-racehorses through clinics, books, program,” Clark said.
and newsletters. While Thoroughbred Placement PHONE: (410) 802-8425
Resources has engaged in rescue work, Clark As a nonprofit, Thoroughbred Placement
notes that the point of their effort has been to Resources is 100 percent volunteer run and MAIN CONTACT:
avoid reaching those situations. largely dependent on tax-deductible donations. Kimberly Godwin Clark

Since its inception in 2008, some 900 former Clark’s e-book “New Track, New Life” explains WEB ADDRESS:
racehorses have been safely transitioned through the advantages of owning off-the-track Thor- goodhorse.org
Thoroughbred Placement Resources’s retrain- oughbreds and is available online free of charge.
SOCIAL:
ThoroughbredPlacementResources

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
40

PAGE 94 DAILY RACING FORM

Thoroughbred SANCTUARY
Retirement Foundation REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION
EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM

Chelsea O’Reilly TESTIMONIAL:

The Second Chances Program at Lowell Correctional pairs incarcerated women with rescued “The work of TAA
and retired racehorses. The horses make a positive impact on the women who care for them. has helped our
organization because
In the late 1970s, tens of thousands of Thor- inmates to build self-esteem and empathy as they of racing’s increased
oughbreds were heading to slaughter each year, developed useful life skills. level of awareness
with no organized efforts to stop the practice. The and sense of
Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, whose Human graduates have gone on to successful responsibility. We are
founding board members included such noted careers as farriers, veterinary assistants, and inspired to be part of
industry participants as the late Penny Chenery, caretakers. a team to establish
Allaire duPont, and Martha Gerry, was launched funding from new
in 1983 to take in horses who could no longer In its 37th year, this mutually beneficial sources so that all
compete and had run out of options. program is now in eight correctional facilities those who benefit
and continues to expand. from Thoroughbreds
In 1984, the newly incorporated organization will contribute to the
became an innovative pioneer in Thoroughbred Initially established to provide lifetime care for many thousands that
aftercare when it formed a partnership with retired racehorses, adoption was added to TRF’s need care.”
New York’s Department of Corrections to create charter in 1996. Fees today generally range from
“TRF Second Chances Program,” a life-affirming $500 to $5,000 depending on age, soundness, and FOUNDED: 1983
vocational training program in equine care and perceived potential of any given animal.
management for inmates. ADDRESS:
Horses that cannot be adopted out as riding or 10 Lake Ave.
A former $3,500 claimer named Promised show stock may still enjoy meaningful lives in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Road became TRF’s first official retiree when corrections-based and/or equine-assisted ther-
he arrived that year at the Wallkill Correctional apy programs. Others join the sanctuary herds at PHONE: (518) 226-0028
Facility in upstate New York. This program 10 farms across the country where they live their
quickly became a win-win situation for both natural lives while receiving full care. MAIN CONTACT:
horses and members of the prison communities Jennifer Stevens
– providing safe equine sanctuary while enabling The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is jennifer@thoroughbredretirement.
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, entirely depen- org
dent upon tax-deductible donations from individ-
uals, businesses, and foundations. WEB ADDRESS:
trfinc.org

SOCIAL:
ThoroughbredRetirementFoundation
@trfinc
@thoroughbredretirement

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
650

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 95

Thoroughbred Retirement SANCTUARY
Network of Louisiana REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TESTIMONIAL:

“We are so privileged
to be a part of the TAA.
Accreditation provides
TRNL with greater
credibility in the horse
community and the
opportunity to do so
much more for horses
in the area.”

Thoroughbred Retirement graduates (from left) unraced Tia Tejano, Untameable, who made 51 FOUNDED: 2009
starts, and Malibu Classic, who made 15 starts, take a schooling break at a local dressage show.
ADDRESS:
Cynthia Morgan-D’Atrio, Ph.D., founded the introduced to a new stage of life and job. 77606 Hwy. 21
Thoroughbred Retirement Network of Louisiana Horses in the TRNL program come from Covington, LA 70435
in 2009. Its mission is: 1) To offer owners, breed-
ers, and trainers of Thoroughbred racehorses a various sources, including owner, trainer, and PHONE:
retraining, retirement, and respite facility; 2) To breeder donations; auction houses and slaughter (504) 858-3875
rescue Thoroughbreds who have been neglected, pens from which horses have been bailed out by
harmed, abused or who are at risk of going to private individuals; animal shelters; and animal- MAIN CONTACT:
slaughter; and 3) To educate the public and those control cases. TRNL has a few special horses that Cindy D’Atrio
in the racing industry about ways to retire their are residents as well as a couple of select horses
horses successfully and to teach others about that serve as ambassadors of the breed and are WEB ADDRESS:
retraining ex-racers. shown at local and recognized shows. www.thoroughbrednetwork.net

TRNL is committed to establishing a quality The most important part of our adoption process SOCIAL:
foundation for each horse with whom it works. is that there is an excellent match between horse ThoroughbredRetirementNetworkOfLouisiana
Our retraining efforts focus on each horse’s indi- and adopter. We prefer that our horses are placed @trnl_horses
vidual strengths and on developing horses that in forever homes with individuals and families
are safe to work with, balanced, and communica- who will love and spoil them for the remainder of AVERAGE NUMBER OF
tive. Horses are allowed as much time as needed their lives. At the time of adoption, we do our best THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
to “come down” and to overcome psychological to disclose as much information as possible to our 8-12
and physical barriers that may be present when adopters so that all needs of each horse may be
met successfully in their new home.

PAGE 96 DAILY RACING FORM

Thoroughbred SANCTUARY
Retirement of Tampa REHABILITATION
RETRAINING/ADOPTION

TROT’s four “Thoroughstangs,” Rose Classic, Dancing Saints, Mambo Appeal, and Summertime TESTIMONIAL:
Groove, have lived as a herd for 7 years but each is available for adoption as a companion horse.
“We are honored to
Thoroughbred Retirement of Tampa, to adjust to life after racing. The feed program is be a TAA-accredited
commonly referred to as TROT, got its start in tailored to meet the needs of each horse, and all partner and grateful
2003 under a different name. In May of 2009, the have constant access to forage. for the racing
organization’s name was legally changed to what industry’s support
it is today and turned its focus to Thoroughbred TROT believes in the power of the herd and of Thoroughbred
aftercare. Ten years later, it continues its mission socialization. New arrivals are exposed to all aftercare. The due
to provide retirement, rehabilitation, retraining, types of experiences and animals – such as cows, diligence of the
and re-homing for off-the-track Thoroughbreds goats, pigs, chickens, dogs, children, and lawn- accreditation process
that raced at Tampa Bay Downs in Oldsmar, Fla. mowers – which helps them become good equine ensures that
citizens. organizations meet
Staffed entirely by volunteers, TROT is not a or exceed specific
rescue operation. All its horses have been donated Retraining is specialized for each individual as standards, which
by their racing connections, and all eventually well, with a focus on the basics. motivates us to look
become available for adoption for various sport- for ways to make
ing and riding purposes. Those that are pasture- Potential adopters are thoroughly vetted, with things even better for
sound only are guaranteed sanctuary until that an adoption contract requiring regular updates our horses.”
perfect home is found. Pure Pulpit is the organi- during a probationary period. The horse may be
zation’s only permanent sanctuary horse. returned to the program for any reason during its FOUNDED: 2003
lifetime, as long as the organization has room at
Once in the program, each horse is treated as its facility. Once a TROT horse, always a TROT ADDRESS:
an individual, as TROT does not adhere to a one- horse! P.O. Box 1621
size-fits-all approach in aftercare. All newcom- Oldsmar, FL 34677-1621
ers receive a minimum of 30 days of downtime Thoroughbred Retirement of Tampa, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit, is funded through tax-deductible dona- PHONE: (352) 356-8768
tions, fundraisers, grants, and adoption fees.
MAIN CONTACT:
Christine Tutcher

WEB ADDRESS:
tampatrot.org

SOCIAL:
tampatrot
@Tampa_TROT

AVERAGE NUMBER OF
THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:

9

DAILY RACING FORM PAGE 97

Tranquility Farm SANCTUARY

TESTIMONIAL:

“The commitment to
provide lifetime
retirement care for
Thoroughbred
racehorses is not for
the faint of heart. It
requires great
dedication and,
above all, a support
network. The TAA has
substantially helped
Tranquility Farm to
provide the very best
care for our horses
and to give them a
secure future.”

Tranquility Farm now focuses solely on providing sanctuary for retired Thoroughbreds. FOUNDED: 1998

Tranquility Farm, the Harry A. Biszantz wood in rural Northern California. While many ADDRESS:
Memorial Center for Thoroughbred Retirement, past Tranquility Thoroughbreds have gone on to 3850 Hacienda Rd.
began with the 1998 purchase of an abandoned successful careers in new and loving homes, the Cottonwood, CA 96022
property in the Tehachapi Mountains of south- present focus of the organization is to provide
central California – the brainchild of nationally sanctuary for former runners to simply and PHONE:
noted owners and breeders Gary Biszantz and happily live out their days. (530) 347-3040
John Amerman and longtime horse rescuer Pris-
cilla Clark, and established in the memory of Those provided lifetime retirement at Tran- MAIN CONTACT:
Biszantz’s late father, Harry. quility have included such racing stars as Grade Priscilla Clark
1 Santa Anita Derby winner Buddy Gil, million-
Believing the racing industry had a respon- aire and 12-time stakes winner Full Moon WEB ADDRESS:
sibility for the horses on whose backs it so Madness, and graded stakes winners such as tranquilityfarmtbs.org
depended, their plan was to celebrate these Thor- Invited Guest, Areyoutalkintome, Mananan
oughbreds while helping those who were injured McLir, Publication, Snipledo, Marvin’s Faith, AVERAGE NUMBER OF
or in need of a home, and at the same time bring Three Peat, and Southern Wish. THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR:
broader public awareness to aftercare. 20
Launched by prominent horsemen, throughout
The organization, now more than two decades its history Tranquility Farm’s board of direc-
old, has been a resounding success in doing what tors has included many well-known industry
it set out to achieve: rescuing, rehabilitating, and members, including Eclipse Award-winning
retiring Thoroughbreds once their days on the journalist Jay Hovdey, bloodstock agent Gayle
track are over. More than 500 ex-racehorses have Van Leer, and Del Mar race-caller Trevor
passed through its program, the base for which Denman. Program sponsors have included some
was relocated in 2014 from Tehachapi to Cotton- of West Coast racing’s most notable names.

PAGE 98 DAILY RACING FORM