PAGE 99 DAILY RACING FORM Thoroughbred Retirement, Rehabilitation, and Careers Thoroughbred Retirement, Rehabilitation, and Careers (TRRAC) is located in West Chester, Pa., on the grounds of the historic Maui Meadow Farm, since 1946 the longest actively operating Thoroughbred farm in Pennsylvania. In 2017, the Lyman family turned their attention to the need they saw for safe landing, rehabilitation, and retraining for racehorses that were retiring from the track and started TRRAC Thoroughbred Aftercare by offering safe sanctuary, rehabilitation, second-career training, and the facilitation of adoptions for off-the-track Thoroughbreds. TRRAC offers medical support, supplementation, rehabilitative care, and second-career training to facilitate the best care possible for all the horses that come into the program. The program offers specialized and professional rehabilitation, with an indoor equine swimming pool that can allow for low-impact rehabilitation and muscle building. Horses in the program are thoroughly evaluated for soundness, suitability for a second career, and disposition, which includes riding assessments and professional training under saddle. TRRAC offers multi-discipline options, which includes professional training from trail and obstacles, to three-day eventing, and everything in between, backed by Charlie and Nina Lyman’s professional riding careers that includes training Thoroughbred racehorses as well as actively competing in different disciplines. The Lymans believe in expressing not only the athletic ability of all Thoroughbreds but also their ability to be versatile family and pleasure mounts, no matter how they performed in their racing careers. They believe in properly restarting retired racehorses in new careers that suit them to ensure the perfect match with an adopter. TRRAC averages 45 horses at the facility, including those in permanent sanctuary, under rehabilitative care, and actively training and showing in new careers. The program has helped facilitate the safe retirement and placement of more than 400 horses. The program is backed by the promise of a safety net for each horse, which may return to the program at any time, for any reason, if they are no longer able to stay with their adopters. Each horse is individually tracked through software, with the adopter providing monthly updates to ensure they are being properly cared for and thriving in their new homes. In 2022, TRRAC initiated the Thoroughbred Recreational Program (TRP), which focuses on retraining retired Thoroughbreds as leisure mounts and therapy horses for amateur riders. The program also offers training clinics, informational seminars, and competitive/judged trail obstacles for both horses under saddle as well as in hand. The program extends to include paraequestrians who enjoy the breed by matching them with a TRP-trained Thoroughbred to show in classes, clinics, and obstacle challenges. TRRAC/Nina Lyman Founders Charlie and Nina Lyman at the Thoroughbred Makeover with Facundo, who placed ninth in competitive trail in a class of nearly 70 horses and competed in other disciplines. TESTIMONIAL: “Earning TAA accreditation is an honor. Accreditation provides verification for supporters and adopters to know we are operating with a high standard of care as well as increased trust with trainers and owners retiring their horses to our organization for re-homing.” FOUNDED: 2017 ADDRESS: 1799 Pocopson Rd. West Chester, PA 19382 PHONE: (267) 665-4179 MAIN CONTACT: Nina M. Lyman, president EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: OTTBS.org SOCIAL: TRRACTB @trrac_ottb AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 85 SANCTUARY REHABILITATION RETRAINING/ADOPTION
PAGE 100 DAILY RACING FORM Tranquility Farm Tranquility Farm, the Harry A. Biszantz Memorial Center for Thoroughbred Retirement, began with the 1998 purchase of an abandoned property in the Tehachapi Mountains of southcentral California – the brainchild of nationally noted owners and breeders Gary Biszantz and John Amerman and longtime horse rescuer Priscilla Clark, and established in the memory of Biszantz’s late father, Harry. Believing the racing industry had a responsibility for the horses on whose backs it so depended, their plan was to celebrate these Thoroughbreds while helping those who were injured or in need of a home, and at the same time bring broader public awareness to aftercare. The organization, now more than two decades old, has been a resounding success in doing what it set out to achieve: rescuing, rehabilitating, and retiring Thoroughbreds once their days on the track are over. More than 500 ex-racehorses have passed through its program, the base for which was relocated in 2014 from Tehachapi to Cottonwood in rural Northern California. While many past Tranquility Thoroughbreds have gone on to successful careers in new and loving homes, the present focus of the organization is to provide sanctuary for former runners to simply and happily live out their days. Those provided lifetime retirement at Tranquility have included such racing stars as Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby winner Buddy Gil, millionaire and 12-time stakes winner Full Moon Madness, and graded stakes winners Invited Guest, Areyoutalkintome, Mananan McLir, Publication, Snipledo, Marvin’s Faith, Three Peat, and Southern Wish. Launched by prominent horsemen, throughout its history Tranquility Farm’s board of directors has included many well-known industry members, including Eclipse Award-winning journalist Jay Hovdey, bloodstock agent Gayle Van Leer, and Del Mar race-caller Trevor Denman. Program sponsors have included some of West Coast racing’s most notable names. Tranquility Farm now focuses solely on providing sanctuary for retired Thoroughbreds. 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.” FOUNDED: 1998 ADDRESS: 3850 Hacienda Rd. Cottonwood, CA 96022 PHONE: (661) 332-8170 MAIN CONTACT: Priscilla Clark, president EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: tranquilityfarmtbs.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 20 SANCTUARY
PAGE 101 DAILY RACING FORM United Pegasus Foundation In 2023, United Pegasus Foundation (UPF) celebrates its 29th year as one of the oldest and largest Thoroughbred horse rescue and sanctuaries in California. Founded in 1994 by Helen Meredith, United Pegasus Foundation has rescued and provided sanctuary for hundreds of off-the-track Thoroughbreds as well as off commercial farm Thoroughbred racehorses. The goal has always been to provide a soft landing for racehorses that desperately needed one. From its humble beginnings in Meredith’s backyard to a 52-acre ranch in Tehachapi, Calif., United Pegasus Foundation has remained committed to ensuring that every horse deserves a second chance regardless of money won, pedigree, or injury. A majority of the horses taken in by the United Pegasus Foundation are permanent retirees. Horses who come to UPF are first rehabilitated from whatever injury they may have and are acclimated to their new environment. Once their rehabilitation is complete, the horse is introduced to a group where they buddy up and live their life as part of a herd. United Pegasus Foundation is home to around 150 horses at any given time. These horses have participated in more than 2,300 races and have combined earnings exceeding $13 million. We work with aftercare partners to find homes for younger horses who need a second career and assist with rehabilitation of those coming off the tracks who have career-ending – and in some cases life-threatening – injuries. The hard work of Meredith and her team is a testament that Thoroughbred retirement is not just a dream but a reality. United Pegasus Foundation is making sure that the athletes who perform for us today will be cared for and given the opportunity to live a great life with new adoptive homes or in retirement herds. There is beauty in watching the farm’s herds run around as if they were in the wild, while at the same time maintaining the human bond that was formed after they were born. United Pegasus Foundation is grateful that the racing industry is committed to taking care of the athletes that make the Sport of Kings one of the greatest sporting spectacles in the world. Wendy Mills Three retired Thoroughbred mares enjoying life at United Pegasus Foundation. TESTIMONIAL: “Because of TAA, United Pegasus Foundation has been able to continue its mission. TAA funding allows us to continue providing adoption, rehabilitation, and retirement homes to many Thoroughbreds coming off the track and out of breeding sheds.” FOUNDED: 1994 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 2477 Tehachapi, CA 93581 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Rd. Tehachapi, CA 93561 PHONE: (626) 773-6016 MAIN CONTACT: Helen Meredith, president EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: unitedpegasus.org SOCIAL: unitedpegasus AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 150 SANCTUARY REHABILITATION RETRAINING/ADOPTION
PAGE 102 DAILY RACING FORM Virginia Thoroughbred Project When the farm was established at James Madison’s Montpelier in November 2003, it was one of many farms managed by a large, national rescue for off-the-track Thoroughbred horses. It continued under the auspices of that organization until December 2019, when it separated from the group to become the Virginia Thoroughbred Project (VTP), an independent entity dedicated to the care of Thoroughbred horses specifically in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In March of 2020, VTP was granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status by the IRS, thus enabling donors to make financial contributions that may be exempt from taxes. In October 2021, the organization became accredited by TAA. Currently, VTP has 35 retired Thoroughbred horses on 150 beautiful rolling acres at Montpelier near Orange, Va. All of these horses were adopted from the founding organization in 2019 and all are sanctuary horses. In other words, they are no longer able to be considered for any other equine endeavor. All receive exceptional care and are checked daily by our professional equine farm manager. Regular veterinary, farrier, and dental care are provided when necessary. Many of these horses are featured on our website and may be sponsored. A few are suitable for adoption as companion animals as they are pasture sound. Anyone interested should contact us. Although our current herd consists of sanctuary horses, VTP’s mission includes retraining horses for post-racing careers and adoption and we are hoping to bring in some candidates for retraining. Additionally, VTP recognizes the value that our horses and facility can add to the community, particularly with local youth. VTP is working with local youth groups to develop an educational program. Please call us if you wish to visit so that we can make certain that our farm manager or a board member is there to assist you and answer your questions. The main gate at the Montpelier estate is open Thursdays through Mondays, the only days appointments can be made. Virginia Thoroughbred Project, which has 36 horses, was accredited by TAA in 2021. TESTIMONIAL: “VTP feels that TAA accreditation is vital as it gives the national stamp of approval to our organization. This recognition tells our audience that we have achieved the highest standard of aftercare for our horses. We are thrilled and proud to have met TAA’s stringent requirements for certification. We look forward to maintaining this high standard in the years to come.” FOUNDED: 2019 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 518 Montpelier Station, VA 22957 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 11350 Constitution Hwy. Montpelier Station, VA 22957 PHONE: (434) 409-2046 MAIN CONTACT: Crystal Wever, farm manager EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: VirginiaThoroughbredProject.org SOCIAL: VirginiaThoroughbredProject.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 40 SANCTUARY REHABILITATION RETRAINING/ADOPTION
PAGE 103 DAILY RACING FORM War Horses at Rose Bower The mission of War Horses at Rose Bower in Appomattox, Va., is to provide aftercare for Thoroughbreds age 9 or older who come to us directly from the racetrack when they are no longer competitive. With rehabilitation our specialty, we tend to the injuries of former stakes winners and hardknocking runners and allot plenty of letdown time for those who will soon be ready to retrain for new careers. We always provide adopters with current and past veterinary evaluations and racetrack records. Although many adopters look for younger horses for competition as hunters, jumpers, dressage, or barrel horses, our older geldings are still far from complete retirement and, with their laidback personalities, can move easily into these new careers or fulfill the wishes of the many horse people who love the idea of a calm, sound trail horse, or a companion. We offer sanctuary to many “war horses” who are not adoptable due to soundness issues but are perfectly suited for therapy or educational programs. Barbara Luna The shorter, late summer days turned all the bay War Horses into shiny black beauties. Our veteran Thoroughbreds enjoy their retirement at the farm in Appomattox, Va. TESTIMONIAL: “Our accreditation by the TAA has encouraged horse owners to seek us out as a safe and reputable program for retirees, knowing that we adhere to the TAA’s strict guidelines for care and adoption. During these times when many wellmeaning people want to rescue OTTBs but do not have the experience or funding to successfully provide for them, a trainer or owner can be assured that a TAA program offers a secure future for their former racehorse.” FOUNDED: 2012 ADDRESS: 8367 Old Courthouse Rd. Appomattox, VA 24522 PHONE: (434) 352-5058 MAIN CONTACT: Barbara Luna, president EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: warhorsesottbs.org SOCIAL: warhorsesottbs @at_horses @warhorsesatrosebower AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 13 SANCTUARY REHABILITATION RETRAINING/ADOPTION EQUINE-ASSISTED PROGRAM
PAGE 104 DAILY RACING FORM Win Place Home Win Place Home, founded in October 2015, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates opportunities and hope for retired racehorses in Southern California. Win Place Home’s unique skill set allows it to rehab almost any injury and to intensively retrain horses. The organization spends the time to assess each horse’s potential, determine the appropriate new lifestyle that will match their skill and interest (such as trail riding, jumping, dressage, etc.), and train them for that new career. Win Place Home focuses on the whole horse, retraining not just their bodies but also their minds, moving them slowly away from the hyperactive life of a racehorse into their unique futures. The organization also spends time to ensure successful placement, with extensive interviewing and tryouts to be sure that each horse finds its perfect match and home. Win Place Home’s blend of broad expertise, deep contacts in the local racing community, and collaborative approach with its growing community of supporters, donors, peers, and partners has been the foundation of its early success. C.J. Wilson, founder and trainer, says that it is the knowledge and care for horses that comes first. “There is nothing which makes me happier than helping animals,” Wilson said. “I am very passionate in my work with retired racehorses and helping them to maximize their potential to bring warmth and happiness to others. “I have been riding since 1983 and working with horses since 1997. I have worked with trainers, owners, and vets from all equine disciplinary backgrounds, and to be able to give back to these horses who have done so much for us is a dream come true.” Combating society’s views that racehorses at the end of their racing careers are “done,” Win Place Home brings a nurturing, disciplined approach to ensuring these horses have a productive and successful post-racing life. Win Place Home believes every horse can have a great future. David Potter Travel Bound, a gelding by Midnight Lute, was the first horse to go through Win Place Home. He is now enjoying a second career as a jumper with his new owner. TESTIMONIAL: “Becoming accredited with the TAA and being a part of their community is invaluable. We are so grateful to be working with an organization that feels the same way that we do: Horse care is first and foremost.” FOUNDED: 2015 ADDRESS: 16257 Lost Canyon Rd., Canyon Country, CA 91387 PHONE: (818) 970-2596 MAIN CONTACT: C.J. Wilson, CEO EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected] WEB ADDRESS: winplacehome.org SOCIAL: winplacehome @winplacehome AVERAGE NUMBER OF THOROUGHBREDS PER YEAR: 30 SANCTUARY REHABILITATION RETRAINING/ADOPTION
GULFSTREAM PARK IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THOROUGHBRED AFTERCARE ALLIANCE
Proud supporter of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance godolphin.com GDN26168 TAA Aftercare Directory FP JAN23.indd 1 20/12/2022 16:46