The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) is the largest equine sanctuary in the world devoted to the rescue, retirement, rehabilitation and retraining of Thoroughbred racehorses no longer able to compete on the track. We currently care for over 1,050 retired and rescued racehorses and have adopted out more than 800 to loving homes. At re-training farms around the country, we prepare racehorses for adoption as riding and companion horses. At eight correctional facilities, inmates build life skills while participating in a vocational training program as they provide supervised care to our retired horses.
The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is a place that offers a humane alternative to the dire possibilities that have long faced a great majority of ex-racers - neglect, abuse and slaughter. It is a place, built on love and caring, that is befitting such noble and deserving animals. As a registered 501(c)3 organization, the TRF receives no public funding and is entirely dependent on the generosity of private individuals. Horse rescue
TRF Announces Racehorse Retirement and Retraining Program for NY
Organizations from every aspect of the New York Thoroughbred industry have come together to support a new program created by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation to provide retirement options and second careers for horses racing at New York Racing Association tracks. The program, forged from a $225,000 start-up grant from the California based Harriet E. Pfleger Foundation, will provide rehabilitation and retraining for as many as 100 horses a year. A portion of the grant is also earmarked for the care of the existing population of retired racehorses at Wallkill. NYRA, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and The Jockey Club, as well as the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. and The Jockeys’ Guild, have all stepped forward with commitments to fund the initiative. Read Entire Story
Paul Saylor Issues Challenge to Benefit TRF
Saratoga Springs, NY (January 23, 2012) -- Thoroughbred owner and breeder Paul Saylor has issued a matching gift challenge to benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. From January 30, 2012 through February 29, Saylor will match any gift, of any size, to the “Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Saylor Challenge”, up to $50,000.00 in total. The funds will be used specifically to support the daily needs of more than 1,000 former racehorses currently under the TRF’s care. Donors may specify that their gifts be earmarked for “Olivia’s Herd” which represents the organization’s horses that are most in need of special care or feeding because of age or other physical condition.
“I am issuing this challenge to motivate people in the racing industry and Thoroughbred lovers to donate to the TRF,” said Saylor. “Thoroughbred racing as a business needs to show that caring for retired racehorses is a priority. I am pleased to be doing this work through the TRF, which I have found to be under sound management and on reasonable financial footing given the difficulties that most charities are experiencing raising money in these times.”
This announcement coincides with the upcoming launch of a web page dedicated to the horses which are a part of “Olivia’s Herd”. “Olivia’s Herd” was created in memory and honor of Olivia Saylor, who died January 1, 2011 in Charleston, SC. Olivia was very involved with her father and siblings in the Thoroughbred racing business. She is credited with naming Ashado, two time champion filly raced by the Saylor family in partnership with Starlight Stables. This partnership also campaigned Grade I winners Purge and Monba. Olivia with her siblings and father also owned and raced Grade I winner and champion Fleet Indian.
“We are immensely grateful to Paul for this generous demonstration of support and confidence in the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation,” stated Diana Pikulski, TRF's Director of External Affairs. “Paul's actions bring needed funds and awareness for the important work of the TRF.”
New York Thoroughbred Breeders Donate $10,000
January 23, 2012 - Today, the New York Thoroughbred Breeders Inc. made a generous $10,000 donation to the TRF. The newest NYTB board member, Michael Lischin of Dutchess Views Farm, has also added $5,000 to that total. The TRF opened our very first farm in Wallkill, NY, nearly three decades ago, and currently cares for 96 retired horses in the state.
We're proud to partner with industry leaders like NYTB to promote and care for these horses when their days on the racetrack are over. Special thanks to NYTB executive director Jeffrey Cannizzo for his ongoing support.
CLICK HERE to make a gift and we'll mail a personalized greeting card to your loved one!
We Love Hearing From Adopters!
January 18, 2011 - Before coming to the TRF, Top Of The Pyramid raced 37 times and won $68,107. On the retirement application, his trainer, Jan Ripley, noted that "he's one of the quietest, kindest racehorses I've ever been around. He's running at the bottom and does his best but it's time to retire. He loves people and I want to find him a best friend."
Last year, Evelyn Turner adopted Top Of The Pyramid from the TRF herd at Polly Bance's Byrd Hill Farm in Virginia. The 8 year old gray gelding has primarily been ridden by Evelyn's daughter, Emily, and Evelyn's mother, Mary, is now learning how to jump on him. Ninja recently competed at his first horse show and was champion in his division! He's at the far right in the group photo and is posing with Emily, Mary, and the family's two other equines. The whole family obviously had a great day at the show!
The TRF always has a number of adoptable horses like Top Of The Pyramid in training. Click here to browse our available Thoroughbreds and find your next horse!
Adoptions to Start the New Year
January 13, 2012 - This was a big week at the TRF farm at Wateree Correctional Facility in Rembert, South Carolina. Dr. Larry Milham had initially been interested in fostering a horse, but decided to jump right in and adopt On A Crusade (pictured) and Beth's Groovy Guy. On A Crusade is 18 years old, raced 61 times and earned $95,927. Beth's Groovy Guy is 17 years old and raced 63 times with $77,318 in winnings.
Additionally, Sheli Rose - who already had one TRF horse at home - adopted Superego, an 8 year old mare with 12 starts and $13,330 under her belt. Congratulations to Dr. Milham and Sheli, and we wish you and your new horses the best of luck!
The TRF always has a number of Thoroughbreds who are ready for new careers as anything from pasture pets to trail buddies to show horses. Check out our "Adopt A Horse" page to learn more.
TRF Files Libel and Slander Suit
January 5, 2012
The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation filed suit in Manhattan state Supreme Court today against Frederick A. Terry Jr., of counsel at Sullivan & Cromwell, in his capacity as executor of the Paul Mellon Estate. The foundation claims that Terry "engaged in a campaign of vilification". Read Entire Story and view complaint.
Meet Classical Music Sensation Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli has sold more classical music records than any recording artist in history. But you may not know that he also loves horses and is an avid rider. In honor of these wonderful animals for whom he has such respect, Mr. Bocelli is teaming up with the TRF to help save retired Thoroughbreds at a special event.
Join us in Miami, Florida on Valentine's Day for a pre-concert cocktail reception, then enjoy the concert from a special section of reserved TRF seats, before meeting the headliner himself during a private post-concert dessert reception.
Last year's show sold out quickly! Two price points, at $220 and $500*. To reserve your seat, please email Diana Pikulski at diana@trfinc.org.
*update: all the $220 tickets have sold out
Battle Lines Being Drawn on Horse Slaughter Issue
December 23, 2011 - The Saratoga Springs, NY-based Saratogian newspaper interviewed TRF Director of External Affairs, Diana Pikulski, about the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act. The TRF always has - and always will - hold a firm anti-slaughter stance on the issue. Please click here to read the full article.
New Novel Chronicles Tale of Unwanted Thoroughbred and Author Donates Portion of Proceeds to TRF
Here’s what Three-day eventing Olympian Denny Emerson has to say about Raja: Story of a Racehorse:
“Anne Hambleton’s enchanting book is fiction, but it might in actuality be true. There is a dark, hidden secret behind the surface glamour of thoroughbred racing. Once a racehorse, especially a gelding, proves insufficient on the racetrack, it becomes unwanted, unappreciated, and unlikely to find a safe harbor. Such is Raja’s fate. One moment, a pampered darling, the next a reject throwaway who spirals down, down, down, through a series of failed second chances, until he’s face to face with the saddest reality of all, the kill pen at the last chance auction.
How he is miraculously saved, and how he struggles back to reach the pinnacle of another racing world is the climax of this ultimately uplifting story of destiny lost and destiny regained.”
Order your copy at www.oldbowpublishing.com and enter coupon code RAJATRFNOVEMBER2011 to receive a discount and have 20% of the sale donated to the TRF.
Lakow Accepts CEO Position
December 8, 2011
Saratoga Springs, N.Y. – The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) announced today that Michael Lakow will take over the position of CEO.
Lakow has been an integral part of the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry for over 35 years. He has served the industry from New York to Dubai in a number of official capacities and was Director of Racing at NYRA for 12 years. He has also held official positions in Delaware, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Dubai. From 2005-2010, Lakow managed administrative operations for Hill ‘n Dale Farms, a leading Kentucky stallion breeding farm, sales consignor and boarding farm.
“I am looking forward to putting all of my experience in the racing and breeding industry to work on behalf of the horses and I would like to thank the TRF board for putting their trust in me,” Lakow said. “I have long admired TRF's innovative programs and their mission as a lifetime retirement home for former racehorses. One of my goals will be to substantially expand TRF’s correctional facility-based farms.” Lakow will be based at the TRF’s office in Saratoga Springs, New York.
Rob Hinkle is leaving the CEO position and will remain a member of the TRF Board of Directors. “My tenure at the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation has been immensely satisfying”, said Hinkle. “I plan to work with the Board on a variety of matters.”
“We are grateful to Rob for coming on board at a critical time,” said John Moore, Chairman of TRF's Executive Committee. “The condition of the TRF herd is excellent and our relationships with satellite farms and correctional facilities have never been better. I look forward to working with Rob on our Herd Committee and on a new Committee that Rob will Chair with the goal of expanding our corporate sponsorships, as he did at the World Equestrian Games.”
Machmer Hall Joins Foster Care Program
November 30, 2011
Something wonderful happened today in Paris, Kentucky. Retired racehorses Submediant, Voladero and Instantpersonality arrived at their new home at Machmer Hall Thoroughbreds, a broodmare facility that happened to have an empty pasture and an owner who wanted to help.
The 9 year old geldings have spent several years at the TRF farm at Blackburn Correctional Facility, and moved to Machmer Hall as part of the TRF Foster Care Program. The horses will enjoy a pampered life while saving the TRF about $6,000 each year in feed, veterinary, and farrier costs. Farm owner Carrie Brogden reported today that all three are settling in well. Thank you to Machmer Hall for opening your barn doors and welcoming these deserving former racehorses.
To learn more about fostering a retired Thoroughbred, please click the "Foster A Horse" button at left.
After A Decade, Retired Thoroughbreds Head Home
November 17, 2011
It has been 11 years since Ishkoodah was a foal exploring the fields at Bonnie Heath Farm in Reddick, FL. And more than a decade has passed since Oakland Boy and Lunar Storms frolicked alongside their dams in the pastures at Whisper Hill Farm in Citra, FL. But after years with the TRF, all three Thoroughbreds are heading home for good.
When both farms learned that the TRF was redoubling our efforts to find permanent homes for our pasture-sound retirees, they didn't hesitate to answer the call. Kim Keith of Bonnie Heath Farm has been leading this effort and hopes that other breeding operations will follow suit.
The TRF extends our deepest gratitude to these farm owners who, despite feeling the same financial strain as the rest of the industry, are simply doing the right thing.
Classic Order: From Killpen to Showring
TRF Expands Foster Care Options
November 10, 2011
So, you want to foster a retired racehorse, but you don’t have a farm? That is what a number of TRF supporters said when we announced the Foster A Horse campaign.
So, Johnathan Miller and his wife Lisa came up with an idea.
“I wanted to help because I love the horses but our farm is full.” said Miller, “And, I thought there must be many people out there who live in cities or suburbs and who want to help as well. So, I suggested I pay the daily cost of caring for a horse, and the TRF calls the horse mine.”
We call it “Full Sponsorship” and it’s like virtual fostering. For $5 a day, billed monthly, quarterly, or annually, you are the virtual owner of your horse and the sole supporting sponsor. And, your financial support assists with the horse’s farrier needs and veterinarian costs.
“This helps the TRF and saves the horse having to be moved away from his pasture mates.” continued Miller. “I think that is important, especially with the older horses. It is a win-win situation.”
TRF is still actively promoting its Foster A Horse program for those people who do have room at their farms and would like to have their foster horse live at their farm. Begun in 1993, the Foster Care program allows horse lovers to take on retired racehorses that are pasture sound and healthy, but not sound for regular riding. Currently there are 60 TRF horses placed at foster farms. This year however, the TRF hopes to increase the number of horses that are fostered, or fully sponsored by 300.
“The Full Sponsorship program could help TRF reach its goal and also provide a more meaningful way for current and potential supporters to donate to the TRF.” said Rob Hinkle, President and CEO of the TRF.
If you are interested in the Full Sponsorship program, please visit the new TRF Sponsorship webpage by clicking HERE.
TRF Second Chances at James River In The News Again
November 7, 2011
In & Around Horse Country magazine features a compelling new piece about the value that the TRF Second Chances vocational training program at James River has for equine and human participants alike.
Thank you to Betsy Burke Parker for writing the article and bringing more attention to this life-affirming program. Copyright 2011, In & Around Horse Country. Reprinted with permission. PleaseCLICK HERE for the full story.
TRF SEES POSITIVE RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR FOSTER CARE PARTNERS
October 28, 2011
Rob Hinkle, President and CEO of The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) issued an urgent request yesterday to horse lovers and farm owners throughout the United States to participate in the TRF’s Foster Care program.
From Hurricane Irene’s impact on the East Coast to Texas’s worst-ever drought, drastic weather conditions this year have presented unique challenges to farms across the country. Many operations are feeling the pinch in the form of rising hay prices.
TRF Program helps inmates find jobs in the horse industry
October 3, 2011 By Renee Standera WISTV.COM, Columbia, SC
REMBERT, SC (WIS) - When their racing careers are over, retired race horses are finding homes right here in South Carolina. And the people caring for them, have a lot of time to give. The fields look like the heart of Kentucky horse country. But more than horses are kept behind these fences. This is the Wateree River Correctional Institution in Rembert, where not only the horses, but the inmates get a second chance. Read More or Watch the Video
TRF Program at Putnamville County Correctional Facility
Last week, the TRF program at Putnamville County Correctional Facility was highlighted on Indiana Public Television. This 6 minute video includes interviews with inmates, prison officials, and farm manager Barbara Holcomb.
TRF at James River Announces 2011 TRF Winners Circle Award Honorees
Ecommerce Solutions by Mountain Media
January 13, 2012 - This was a big week at the TRF farm at Wateree Correctional Facility in Rembert, South Carolina. Dr. Larry Milham had initially been interested in fostering a horse, but decided to jump right in and adopt On A Crusade (pictured) and Beth's Groovy Guy. On A Crusade is 18 years old, raced 61 times and earned $95,927. Beth's Groovy Guy is 17 years old and raced 63 times with $77,318 in winnings.
Andrea Bocelli has sold more classical music records than any recording artist in history. But you may not know that he also loves horses and is an avid rider. In honor of these wonderful animals for whom he has such respect, Mr. Bocelli is teaming up with the TRF to help save retired Thoroughbreds at a special event. 
November 7, 2011
