Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Announces New Strategic Plan
LEXINGTON, KY — Walter S. Robertson, Jr., president of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, announced today the inauguration of a new strategic plan for the organization, broadening the scope of its activities, enhancing its sustainability, and developing new partnerships toward encouraging use of Thoroughbreds beyond their racing and breeding years.
FanDuel Racing’s Year-Round Commitment to Thoroughbred Aftercare
With its sponsorship of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile in conjunction with Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, and supporting major fund-raising events like CARMAthon, FanDuel Racing, formerly known as TVG, has been a major driver in recent years in helping to raise the profile why it’s vitally important for former racehorses to have worthy second acts.
Leading by Example: Ken Freirich’s Impact Across Racing and Beyond
Whether its endowing scholarships at his alma mater of Skidmore College, supporting disabled jockeys, or donating to Thoroughbred aftercare, Ken Freirich believes in leading by example, and last week at the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar, he was seemingly everywhere all at once, spreading the message.
Life After Racing Stands Out at the Pacific Classic
The biggest race of the summer at Del Mar is coming up on Saturday, August 30, with the $1 million Pacific Classic, and Del Mar will go all out to promote Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to what should be a large audience, both on-track and via various simulcast outlets, most notably FanDuel TV.
Ken Freirich’s $100k Match Kicks Off Annual Day of Giving
Breeders’ Cup Announces Expanded Charities Program
Honoring Thoroughbreds: NYRA Celebrates the Fifth Annual New York Aftercare Day at Saratoga
All Items Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Retraining Tips Supporter Features Equine-Assisted Learning Sanctuary Living Inspector Spotlights Hamburger Toggle Menu Previous PostNext Post Honoring Thoroughbreds: NYRA Celebrates the Fifth Annual New York Aftercare Day at Saratoga Honoring Thoroughbreds: NYRA Celebrates the Fifth Annual New York Aftercare Day at Saratoga By: Jay Privman June 30, 2025 Supporter Feature Tags:Industry Stakeholder, New York Racing Association, NYRA, supporter, Supporter Feature, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Supporter One of the highest-profile aftercare events of the year, and the biggest one of the summer in Saratoga, will take place July 17 with the fifth annual New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day, whose highlight will be the naming of the Down Broadway Retired Racehorse of the Year Award. The Down Broadway Award is named for the first horse to retire through the New York-based TAKE THE LEAD Program, whose founder, the late trainer Rick Violette, has a stakes race named for him on that card. Many organizations collaborate to make New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day such a meaningful and successful event, including the New York Racing Association, New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, and New York Thoroughbred Breeders. Four aftercare organizations – New Vocations, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Second Chance Thoroughbreds, and ReRun – all accredited and supported by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, are the homes of the four horses who are the finalists for the Down Broadway Award. “In 2021, NYRA, NYTHA and the NYTB launched Thoroughbred Aftercare Day at Saratoga to celebrate and highlight the work of New York State’s aftercare community,” said Tony Allevato, the chief revenue officer and president of NYRA Bets. “Saratoga is the ideal location to reach both seasoned racing fans and newcomers to the sport, which provides us with myriad opportunities to communicate with fans about our work supporting aftercare initiatives and organizations. “In addition to the on-track demonstrations, we use the reach of Saratoga Live and FOX Sports to speak with viewers not just on-track or in New York but across the country. NYTHA and NYTB have been central to the growth of Thoroughbred Aftercare Day, and we are excited to host the fifth edition on July 17.” TAKE THE LEAD, which is a retirement program, and its sister organization, TAKE2, which re-trains horses for second careers, both were started by Violette, who was the longtime head of NYTHA. He died in 2018. “TAKE THE LEAD and TAKE2 are a credit to the legacy of Rick Violette, who was so dedicated to creating second careers and retirement programs for Thoroughbreds in New York,” Allevato said. “We take great pride in supporting these groups, and that is reflected not only on Aftercare Day at Saratoga but throughout the year. Tony Allevato “New York is a national leader when it comes to supporting and investing in a variety of aftercare efforts. At NYRA, we believe the athletes who give so much to the sport deserve to retire with dignity when their racing days are done,” Allevato added. “Our commitment to these efforts is matched by our partners across New York’s racing community, and our collective dedication to supporting Thoroughbred aftercare continues to expand year after year. That is reflected in the investments we see from NYRA, NYTHA, NYTB and so many groups and individuals who work to re-home and re-train these athletes.” Allevato’s personal commitment to the cause resulted in him being named to the board of directors of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance at the start of 2025. “Horse racing is special because it is a community of people who care deeply for these wonderful animals, and we all contribute in different ways to its success.” Tony Allevato chief revenue officer and president of NYRA Bets “Everything I have in my life I owe to a career in horse racing,” said Allevato, whose previous stops included Hollywood Park and TVG, now FanDuel TV. “This was an opportunity to join a visionary leadership group at the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance who effect change and make a lasting impact far beyond the gates of the tracks where so much of the public’s attention is focused. “Horse racing is special because it is a community of people who care deeply for these wonderful animals, and we all contribute in different ways to its success. I thank the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance for having me, and I am looking forward to amplifying the work we do this summer on Saratoga Live with the help of FOX Sports.” Learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s supporters: Industry Stakeholders Share This Article
The 10th Annual ABR Pre-Preakness Party: A Night of Fun and Philanthropy
All Items Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Retraining Tips Supporter Features Equine-Assisted Learning Inspector Spotlights Hamburger Toggle Menu [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] The 10th Annual ABR Pre-Preakness Party: A Night of Fun and Philanthropy The 10th Annual ABR Pre-Preakness Party: A Night of Fun and Philanthropy By: Jay Privman May 7, 2025 Tags: Years before he got into racing professionally, back when he was a college-aged fan, Dan Tordjman attended an event prior to the Belmont Stakes at which jockeys and trainers mingled with the patrons. He was awestruck. “I walked up to John Velazquez – I was trembling – and he was so cool,” Tordjman recalled. “That planted the seed. It left an impression. It had an impact. If fans of the sport can meet jockeys and trainers and have an interaction, it could take the fan on a trajectory to anything.” That trajectory will lead to the Mt. Washington Tavern, just north of Baltimore and only minutes from Pimlico Race Course, on Wednesday night, May 14, when America’s Best Racing (ABR) puts on its 10th Pre-Preakness Party, three days before the historic 150th running of the Preakness at Pimlico. Tordjman, who has worked for ABR for more than a decade and is now the Vice President of The Jockey Club Media Ventures, parent company of ABR, helped launch the Pre-Preakness Party, hoping to repeat for others the experience he had as a fan all those years before. “It’s a party meant for everyone,” Tordjman said. “It’s accessible, affordable, and a lot of fun.” It also helps raise funds and awareness for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, as well as the The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, and the Ed Brown Society – which highlights the extensive history of African-Americans in racing and helps to increase opportunities for young people of color in the sport. There will be a silent auction, for people in attendance as well as those bidding remotely. “There will be a lot of memorabilia, halters, farm visits, a lot of cool stuff,” Tordjman said. “Not everyone who supports Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance can attend, but they can support the event by gifting tickets, donating to the silent auction, or bidding on items. Those in attendance can get jockeys to sign autographs. It’s a party for the fans. It’s Maryland-themed, and Preakness-centric.” Load More End of Content. Tickets cost $35 in advance, or $50 at the door, and include one drink ticket and a buffet of some of Mt. Washington Tavern’s top food items, like their famous crab cakes. The first of these events was held in 2014, and it has been held annually except for Covid-related interruptions in 2020 and 2021. Over the years, Tordjman said the event has raised tens of thousands of dollars for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “It’s still our signature event, and in addition it raises awareness for aftercare,” he said. “It helps raise awareness of the incredible work Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance does. A lot of fans of the sport are passionate about what happens to horses when their racing careers are over. Those fans are doing what they can to make sure horses have a soft landing.” The Maryland Jockey Club, which owns Pimlico, is the title sponsor of the event. Ambassador Earle Mack, a long-time horse owner, is the supporting sponsor. Tickets can be purchased on-line at bit.ly/ABRPartyTickets To register for the auction and be able to bid, go to thoroughbredaftercare.org/abr-pre-preakness-party Share This Article Learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s supporters: Industry Stakeholders
Repole Stable Celebrates Kentucky Derby with Matching Donation to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance
All Items Press Releases In the News Hamburger Toggle Menu [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous Post Repole Stable Celebrates Kentucky Derby with Matching Donation to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Repole Stable Celebrates Kentucky Derby with Matching Donation to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2025 News Tags:Industry Stakeholder, Kentucky Derby, Match Sponsor, Mike Repole, Repole, Repole Stable, Supporters, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance LEXINGTON, KY – Mike Repole has generously pledged support to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance through a matching campaign throughout the week leading up to the Kentucky Derby. In honor of Repole Stables’ Derby entrant, Grande, Repole will match donations up to $50,000, presenting a unique opportunity for the racing community and charitable donors to make a meaningful impact for retired racehorses. The matching initiative begins on April 28 and extends through May 4. “Every Thoroughbred athlete deserves an enjoyable and quality retirement. I am honored to support Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and their mission of accredited aftercare,” said Mike Repole, Owner of Repole Stable. “I encourage others to join me in making a charitable donation during one of the most anticipated weeks of the racing year. Let us all raise awareness and do our part in ensuring these athletes receive the best, well-deserved protection as they transition beyond the finish line. It is our responsibility, and we all owe it to these amazing loving Thoroughbred athletes.” Repole expressed his hope that the matching campaign would act as a catalyst, inspiring additional contributions throughout the week leading up to the Kentucky Derby. By doubling the impact of donations, Repole aims to encourage others to support accredited aftercare, underscoring the importance of providing retired Thoroughbred racehorses with the highest level of quality care and second-chance opportunities. In a fun effort to spread awareness of this week-long initiative, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and Repole Stable invite fans and supporters to cheer on their favorite Kentucky Derby contender by donating to help support future placement and retirement of racehorses. “Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is deeply grateful for Mike Repole’s extraordinary $50,000 pledge. His commitment sets the tone for all of us to rally together and make an even greater impact. Join us in honoring his generosity by contributing to support our retired Thoroughbred racehorses,” said Emily Dresen, Director of Funding and Events, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of individuals, such as Repole, to ensuring the welfare and appropriate retirement of these equine athletes after racing. Contributions can be made by check, text, or online donation. To donate online visit: org/donation_now To donate by text message: text DONATE to 855-800-4975 To donate by check: mail with attention to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance at 821 Corporate Drive, Lexington, KY 40503 About Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Based in Lexington, KY, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that accredits, inspects, and awards grants to approved aftercare organizations to retrain, retire, and rehome Thoroughbreds using industry-wide funding. Along with continued funding from its original partners Breeders’ Cup, The Jockey Club, and Keeneland Association, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is supported by owners, trainers, breeders, racetracks, aftercare professionals, and other industry members. Since its inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has granted more than $36.04 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently, 83 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 175 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, visit thoroughbredaftercare.org. Contact Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance859-224-2756info@thoroughbredaftercare.org Fundraising & EventsEmily Dresen352-362-6934edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org Media ContactSamantha Smith Share This Release
Supporter Feature: Aftercare Partner IFAR Brings Global Conversation to Lexington
All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Retraining Tips Supporter Features Equine-Assisted Learning Inspector Spotlights Hamburger Toggle Menu [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous Post Supporter Feature: Aftercare Partner IFAR Brings Global Conversation to Lexington Supporter Feature: Aftercare Partner IFAR Brings Global Conversation to Lexington By: Jay Privman April 16, 2025 Supporter Feature Tags:Aftercare Partner, IFAR, Industry Stakeholder, International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses, supporter, Supporter Feature, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Supporter The growing realization of the need for sustained Thoroughbred aftercare has become of worldwide importance in recent years, and this year the biggest event in the space, the International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR), is coming to the United States, to Lexington, Ky., April 24-26. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will have a significant presence at IFAR, whose opening-day panels will be held at Spy Coast Farm’s Equine Education Center on Newtown Pike, north of downtown Lexington, adjacent to the Kentucky Horse Park. The event will overlap with the prestigious Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, held the same weekend in Lexington. “This is a great opportunity for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to have a presence, to demonstrate that Thoroughbreds are versatile, adaptable, and sought-after, to highlight their successes, and raise awareness that they are great options for sport horses,” said Kristin Werner, the deputy general counsel and director of industry initiatives for The Jockey Club — one of the founders of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance — and the chair of the conference committee for IFAR. “During the three-day event, Thoroughbreds will be highlighted for their top-level versatility. It’s a cool opportunity to see Thoroughbreds doing something other than racing — see them going over jumps, see them doing dressage, see why it’s so important to recognize what they can do as sport horses,” Werner said. Four-time Olympian Boyd Martin will be the keynote speaker on opening day at the event, which in subsequent days will include on-site visits at accredited aftercare facilities in the area, and a social gathering during the cross-country portion of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. Jen Roytz, co-owner of Brownstead Farm and active Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance supporter, will serve as moderator for the conference. Stacie Clark-Rogers, operations consultant for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, is among the panelists on the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-sponsored panel “Connections Through Thoroughbreds,” which will focus on sourcing and preparing horses for therapeutic services. Martin pictured with Thoroughbred Blackfoot Mystery at a past Kentucky Three-Day Event. PC: Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Erin Halliwell, executive director of the Thoroughbred Charities of America, and John Nicholson, president and chief executive officer of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited Old Friends, are on a panel focusing on “Sustainable Business Practices in Aftercare” for non-profits, including succession planning and preparedness for emergencies. Dr. Bryan Waldridge, a veterinarian for Old Friends, and Ashley Watts, owner of Liftoff Equestrian, which houses and trains horses for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited Canter Kentucky, are on the panel “Challenges in Aftercare: On-Track to Second Career,” which will address challenges horses face transitioning from racing to second careers. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s Dr. Jeff Berk, and Anna Ford, Thoroughbred Program director of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, will opine on “Post-Racing Veterinary Evaluations,” focusing on best practices in post-racing assessments to identify horses suited for second careers, including those with less visible vulnerabilities. Kirsten Green, executive director of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-sponsored Retired Racehorse Project, is on the panel “Raising Awareness Through Events,” which will discuss leveraging horse shows and other events to raise funds and awareness for Thoroughbred aftercare globally. “This year the focus will be on two objectives — sharing best practices for aftercare, and promoting the versatility of Thoroughbreds.” Kristin Werner Deputy General Counsel and Director of Industry Initiatives for The Jockey Club IFAR is an independent forum that recognizes geographical and industry differences among racing countries and is designed to enhance Thoroughbred aftercare worldwide. It has previously conducted forums in conjunction with the 40th Asian Racing Conference (ARC) in Sapporo, Japan in August 2024; the 39th ARC in Melbourne, Australia in February 2023; the 38th ARC in Cape Town, South Africa, in February 2020; the European & Mediterranean Horseracing Federation’s General Assembly in Oslo, Norway, in May 2019; the 37th ARC in Seoul, South Korea, in May 2018; and the Pan American Conference in Washington, D.C., in May 2017. Virtual conferences were held in 2021 and 2022 owing to the pandemic. “This year,” Werner said, “the focus will be on two objectives — sharing best practices for aftercare, and promoting the versatility of Thoroughbreds.” The overlap with Defender presents additional opportunities for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to engage with an even wider audience. “Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is going to have a major presence at Defender, because it’s the largest concentration of horse shopping opportunities you can find,” Werner said. PC: Suzie Picou-Oldham Learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s supporters: Industry Stakeholders Share This Article