After The Homestretch-Arizona was founded in 2011 to fulfill a critical need for aftercare.

The local racetrack, Turf Paradise, draws horses from all over North America and even some foreign countries. With a six-month racing season and as many as 1,700-2,100 horses stabled there, it’s inevitable that many of these runners will be in need of a new home by meet’s end. Some horses will sustain recoverable injuries, while others won’t be fast enough to compete, yet they all have the rest of their lives ahead of them.

Since these horses were bred for athleticism, heart, and intelligence, they are very athletic and can excel in other disciplines. They just need a chance to find that second career and a new home “after the homestretch.”

This is where After The Homestretch steps in. Its mission is protecting the legacy of former racehorses through education, reconditioning, retraining, and re-homing. As an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) organization, it relies upon the generous support of its donors, grant partners like TAA, and a team of dedicated volunteers to help carry out its mission. Governance is overseen by an active volunteer board of directors and supported by an advisory board of industry professionals.

Horses at the facility have included stakes winners, a granddaughter of Secretariat who produced eight runners, and a track record-setting winner of $200,000. Facility horses have ranged in age from 1 1/2 to 26 and have been available as companion horses, for riding, and for showing. In the past 13 years, After The Homestretch has consistently found adoptive homes for six-seven ex-racehorses each year.

Upon arrival, each horse is checked by a vet and analyzed to be placed in a program for rehabilitation. Once the horse has been rested and rehabilitated, it is evaluated to determine the discipline and training for which it is best suited. When a horse is ready for adoption, compliance with the Arizona Department of Racing guidelines is followed to fully screen applicants who wish to adopt the horse. Safety for the horse and rider is always the number one goal, so it is imperative to make the best possible match.

Looking ahead, After The Homestretch will continue to provide the best aftercare possible for every horse that joins its herd. Dedicated volunteers are always needed for daily chores, horse care and training, marketing, fundraising, and property maintenance.