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HorseRacing

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance: A Beacon of Hope for Retired Racehorses

2024-11-18

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has made a significant impact in the world of retired racehorses. With a recent announcement of $4.14 million in grants to 83 accredited organizations, they are continuing to lead the way in providing exceptional care and rehabilitation services.

Empowering Retired Thoroughbreds with Generous Grants

Financial Support for Exceptional Care

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance's $4.14 million in grants is a game-changer for the 83 accredited organizations. These funds are dedicated to ensuring that retired racehorses receive the best possible care and rehabilitation. Since its 2012 inception, the alliance has grown from 23 to 83 accredited organizations, and the annual grant amount has increased from $1 million to $4.14 million. Over the years, they have awarded a total of $36.04 million in grants specifically for equine care. These accredited organizations have successfully retrained, retired, and rehomed approximately 18,500 Thoroughbreds across 175 facilities. This shows the tangible impact that the alliance's efforts are having on the lives of these horses.

The financial support provided by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is crucial for the continued work of these organizations. It allows them to maintain high-quality practices in every aspect of equine management, from horse welfare to facility care and management. The achievement of accreditation indicates that an organization meets specific criteria in these areas, serving as a testament to their dedication.

Janice Towles, Director of Accreditation & Grants, expressed her excitement about the grant awards. "Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is thrilled to announce grant awards to our 83 accredited organizations this year. The funding we provide is essential for these organizations to continue their incredible work and protection for retired Thoroughbred racehorses as they transition into second careers. We are extremely proud of each organization's commitment and diligence in supporting these horses, ensuring they receive the best possible futures beyond the racetrack."

The Accreditation Process

Accredited organizations go through a comprehensive application and inspection process to ensure they meet the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Code of Standards. This code covers five key areas: operations, education, horse health care management, facility standards and services, and adoption policies and protocols. Inspections are conducted at all facilities housing Thoroughbreds within each organization, and ongoing updates and re-inspections are required as a condition of accreditation. This rigorous process ensures that the organizations are providing the highest level of care to the retired racehorses.

The attention to detail in the accreditation process is evident in the five key areas covered by the Code of Standards. Operations are carefully monitored to ensure smooth functioning and efficient use of resources. Education is emphasized to ensure that staff members are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to care for the horses. Horse health care management is a top priority, with strict guidelines in place to ensure the well-being of the animals. Facility standards and services are also closely monitored to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the horses. Adoption policies and protocols are in place to ensure that the horses are placed in suitable homes.

The comprehensive nature of the accreditation process gives donors and the public confidence in the work of the accredited organizations. It shows that they are committed to providing the best possible care for the retired racehorses and that they are held to a high standard.

Industry Support and Collaborative Efforts

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is supported by members across all facets of the Thoroughbred industry, including owners, breeders, trainers, stallion farms, racetracks, sales companies, horsemen's groups, foundations, veterinarians, horseplayers, and wagering technology companies. Charitable donations from these varied sources contribute to the funds allocated for grants at year-end.

This collaborative effort highlights the industrywide allegiance to the well-being and post-racing lives of Thoroughbreds. It shows that everyone in the industry is committed to ensuring that these horses have a safe and fulfilling future. Stacie Clark-Rogers, Operations Consultant, expressed gratitude for the continued increase in the total grant amount. "Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is grateful to continue increasing the total grant amount each year to support accredited aftercare organizations. With a new record of over $4 million in grants awarded this year for the first time, it underscores our commitment to long-term equine welfare. We extend our sincere gratitude to the donors who go above and beyond the minimum giving levels. These generous contributions have made it possible to meet our annual funding targets, helping even more retired Thoroughbreds find the safe, fulfilling futures they deserve."

The support from the industry is essential for the continued success of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. It allows them to expand their efforts and help even more horses in need. As they move forward, it is clear that the alliance will continue to play a vital role in the lives of retired Thoroughbreds.

Horse racing enthusiasts, get ready to explore the world of up-and-coming horses with Horse Racing Nation's Prospect Watch. This comprehensive scan of all upcoming entries uncovers starters in the early stages of their careers who have made a significant impact at the auction or have siblings with graded-stakes wins. Fair Grounds opens its season this week, and the maiden special weight races are brimming with talented youngsters. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable entries.

Uncover the Next Generation of Horse Racing Stars

Friday at Fair Grounds

In Fair Grounds race 4, No. 1 Canal Street stands out. She is a Louisiana-bred daughter of McKinzie, with a dam named You Laughin. This filly is a half-sibling to the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) winner Zenden. Trained by Bret Calhoun for Martin Racing, Bob Gorsky, and Circustown Racing Stable, Axel Concepcion will be in the saddle for her six-furlong dirt debut.

Fair Grounds race 6 features No. 3 Natural Rights. A 2-year-old half-brother to Grade 2 winner Zeitlos, he is sired by Constitution and out of the Redoute's Choice mare Thyme for Roses. Like Zeitlos, Natural Rights is a homebred for Stonestreet Stable and is trained by Steve Asmussen. Jose Ortiz will pilot him in the 5 1/2-furlong turf maiden special weight race.

Sunday at Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs race 1 brings us Thorpedo Anna's half-brother, McAfee. After his winning debut under trainer Rick Dutrow, he is back in the entries for his second career start, moving up to a starter allowance. McAfee is sired by Cloud Computing and owned by Black Type Thoroughbreds.

Churchill Downs race 7 also has two noteworthy fillies making their debuts. Brown Sugar, a full sister to 2021 Preakness Stakes winner Rombauer, is sired by Twirling Candy and out of the mare Cashmere. Bred in Kentucky by John and Diane Fradkin, she was purchased for $400,000 at the OBS June sale and will be trained by Ignacio Correas with Luis Saez in the irons.

Pretty Sassy, a half-sister to 2023 Kentucky Oaks winner Pretty Mischievous, is sired by Medaglia d'Oro and out of the Tapit mare Pretty City Dancer. She is a homebred for Godolphin and will be trained by Brendan Walsh with Tyler Gaffalione aboard.

First-Time Starters

On various tracks across different days, there are several first-time starters vying for attention. For example, at FL 4 on 11/18, Dr. Barry, sired by Blame and with a dam named Mindy Gold, is set to make his debut. Another notable is Frannie’s Wish at RP 6 on 11/19, sired by Vino Rosso and out of Rosy Humor.

At CD 1 on 11/20, Bonita Song, sired by Cross Traffic and with a dam named Bonita Blonde, is a 2-year-old filly making her first start. And at PRX 7 on 11/20, Foil, sired by Street Sense and out of Elude, is also ready to begin his racing career.

Second-Time Starters

My Vino at ZIA 8 on 11/19 is a 2-year-old male making his second start, sired by Vino Rosso and with a dam named Specification. Cathcart at CD 10 on 11/21 is a 3-year-old filly with a sire of Quality Road and a dam named S S Pinafore.

Miss Rosie T at DED 8 on 11/21 is another second-time starter, a 2-year-old filly sired by Improbable and out of Dancing Alone.

Third-Time Starters

Lawyer Up Riley at CT 5 on 11/20 is a 3-year-old male making his third start, sired by Into Mischief and with a dam named Call Pat. Ice Cream Boat at AQU 1 on 11/21 is a 2-year-old filly with a sire of Outwork and a dam named Special Treat.

The 2024 Breeders’ Cup World Championships held at Del Mar from November 1 to 2 was a significant event in the world of horse racing. With the post-race test samples from contenders now cleared by the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit, purse distribution has commenced smoothly. This marked the second year these championships were run under the full jurisdiction of the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority, which includes a comprehensive anti-doping and medication control program that took effect in May 2023 and is implemented and enforced by HIWU.

Under the New Anti-Doping Rules

Just as it was under Breeders’ Cup’s previous anti-doping and medication control rules before the HISA’s ADMC program came into play, medication is strictly prohibited within 48 hours of the 14 championship races and the undercard. This ensures a level playing field and maintains the integrity of the sport. All potential Breeders’ Cup competitors were also subjected to out-of-competition testing for banned substances leading up to the event, adding an extra layer of security. 1: The implementation of these strict anti-doping measures is crucial for the credibility of horse racing. It shows that the sport is committed to upholding the highest standards and protecting the well-being of the horses. By prohibiting medication within a specific time frame and conducting out-of-competition testing, the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority is taking significant steps to prevent doping and ensure fair competition. 2: These rules also serve as a deterrent to potential cheaters. Knowing that there are strict consequences for using banned substances, riders and trainers are more likely to abide by the rules. This helps to maintain the trust of fans and stakeholders in the sport and ensures that the winners are truly the best of the best.

The Impact on Purse Distribution

Now that the post-race test samples have been cleared, purse distribution has begun accordingly. This is a crucial aspect of the championships as it rewards the winners and participants for their performance. The cleared samples give confidence to the organizers and participants that the results are legitimate and not tainted by doping. 1: The proper distribution of purses is essential for the sustainability of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. It attracts top horses and jockeys from around the world and ensures that the event remains a premier competition. The clearing of the test samples allows for a seamless transition to the purse distribution process, which is eagerly awaited by all involved. 2: The fact that purse distribution has begun indicates that the organizers have confidence in the integrity of the event. It also sends a message to the racing community that doping will not be tolerated and that fair play is the norm. This sets a good example for other horse racing events and helps to raise the overall standard of the sport.

The Role of HIWU

The Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Their work in clearing the post-race test samples and implementing the anti-doping and medication control program is essential for the success of the event. 1: HIWU’s efforts in conducting thorough testing and enforcing the rules help to maintain the reputation of horse racing. They work closely with the organizers and participants to ensure that everything is done in accordance with the regulations. Their expertise and dedication are crucial in detecting and preventing doping. 2: By having a dedicated unit like HIWU in place, the sport of horse racing can address any issues related to doping promptly and effectively. This gives confidence to the fans and stakeholders that the sport is being run in a fair and transparent manner. It also helps to protect the welfare of the horses and ensures their well-being.