Tag: Saratoga Race Course

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Accredited Aftercare at Saratoga Race Course and Fasig-Tipton Sales

All Items Press Releases In the News Newsletter Archive Hamburger Toggle Menu Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Accredited Aftercare at Saratoga Race Course and Fasig-Tipton Sales Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Accredited Aftercare at Saratoga Race Course and Fasig-Tipton Sales FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2025 News Tags:Community Booth, Fasig-Tipton Sales, New York Racing Association, NYRA, Saratoga, Saratoga Race Course, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Whitney Stakes LEXINGTON, KY – Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will return to Saratoga during the first week of August to highlight accredited aftercare through a variety of initiatives at both Saratoga Race Course and Fasig-Tipton. The organization will participate in events during Whitney weekend, which includes the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney Stakes, and will remain active through the Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearling Sale the following week. The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will feature Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance as its Community Partner during Whitney weekend. The 98th running of the Whitney Stakes will take place Saturday, Aug. 2, at Saratoga Race Course. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present at NYRA’s Community Outreach Booth on Saturday and Sunday, where fans can learn more about accredited aftercare. Branded merchandise will be available in exchange for donations, including a limited-edition Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance t-shirt. Donna Barton Brothers, author of Inside Track: Insider’s Guide to Horse Racing, will appear at the booth on Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon. Signed copies of her book will be available for $10 each, while supplies last. NYRA will also recognize Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance with a named race on the undercard on both Saturday and Sunday. Following each race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections, who will receive a branded blanket and gift bag. “NYRA is pleased to continue this important partnership with Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance during Whitney weekend at Saratoga,” said Tony Allevato, NYRA Chief Revenue Officer and President of NYRA Bets. “Saratoga provides the ideal stage for highlighting the importance of supporting accredited aftercare, and we thank TAA for their commitment to the sport.” The weekend will also include hosting the winners of the VIP experience auctioned earlier this year through the “Off to the Races” campaign supporting accredited aftercare. This experience was generously donated by NYRA, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and Anne’s Washington Inn. The winners will enjoy a horseman’s box for five, paddock and winner’s circle access, a private tour with Tom Durkin, a family museum membership, and more. Fasig-Tipton, a supporting partner of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, will host The Saratoga Sale of selected yearlings Aug. 4–5. Representatives will be on-site to meet with supporters, consigners, and buyers to promote accredited aftercare. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will also distribute New York Thoroughbred Breeding & Development Fund co-branded gifts to consigners participating in the New York Bred Yearlings Sale, scheduled for Aug. 10–11. While in Saratoga, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will also conduct inspections at accredited aftercare facilities as part of its ongoing accreditation process. In addition, staff will meet with trainers, owners, and supporters throughout the week and convene for the organization’s annual board meeting on Thursday, Aug. 7. 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

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance On-Site for Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course

All Items Press Releases In the News Newsletter Archive Hamburger Toggle Menu [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance On-Site for Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance On-Site for Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 29, 2025 News Tags:Belmont Stakes, New York Racing Association, NYRA, Saratoga, Saratoga Race Course, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance LEXINGTON, KY – Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be on-site at Saratoga Race Course for Belmont Stakes weekend. The 157th running of the Belmont Stakes presented by NYRA Bets will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025. To highlight accredited aftercare, the New York Racing Association, Inc (NYRA) will honor Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance with a named race on the undercard on Friday, June 6. Following the running of the race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections, including a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance branded blanket and gift bag. “NYRA is proud to continue its partnership with Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance during the 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival,” said Tony Allevato, President of NYRA Bets and NYRA Chief Revenue Officer. “Supporting accredited aftercare is a vital part of our sport’s future, and we’re pleased to recognize Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of our equine athletes. This weekend provides the perfect stage to celebrate the importance of aftercare with fans, horsemen, and the entire racing community.” Representatives from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present to host the winners of the VIP experience that was auctioned off earlier in the year in the “Off to the Races” Campaign to support accredited aftercare. The winners of this experience will enjoy a table for four and a day of racing on Friday and Saturday, admission into the paddock on Friday, and much more. This exciting VIP experience was generously donated by NYRA. “Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is thrilled to be back at Belmont at Saratoga to witness the final leg of the Triple Crown,” said Emily Dresen, Director of Fundraising and Events. “We are grateful to NYRA for providing us with this opportunity to showcase our mission, host our winners of the Belmont VIP Experience, and see so many supporters and racing fans. We wish all the contenders and connections the best of luck and a fantastic day of racing!” 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

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Initiatives in Saratoga

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Retraining Tips Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Initiatives in Saratoga Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Highlight Initiatives in Saratoga FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2024 News Tags:accredited aftercare, Accredited Organizations, Fasig Tipton, Fasig-Tipton Sales, NYRA, Saratoga Race Course, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Whitney Stakes LEXINGTON, KY — Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will return to Saratoga this August to highlight accredited aftercare with a variety of initiatives at Saratoga Race Course and Fasig-Tipton. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present for both the weekend of the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney Stakes, and the following week of the Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearling sales. New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will feature Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance as its Community Partner during the weekend of the Whitney Stakes. The 97th running of the Whitney Stakes will be held at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, August 3, 2024. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present at NYRA’s Community Outreach Booth on both Saturday and Sunday, where patrons and race fans can visit to learn about accredited aftercare. Branded merchandise will also be available at the booth in exchange for a donation, including a limited-edition Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance ‘Saratoga’ t-shirt. During the weekend of the Whitney Stakes, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be honored with a named race on Saturday’s undercard. After the named race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections, including a branded blanket and branded merchandise. Additionally, representatives from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will present the Best Turned Out Horse award on Saturday during the Fasig-Tipton Lure in the winner’s circle. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will host the winners of the Saratoga VIP Experience from the “Off to the Races” online benefit auction. This experience was generously donated by NYRA, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and Anne’s Washington Inn. The winners will enjoy a horseman’s box for five, paddock and winner’s circle access for the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance race, a tour with Tom Durkin at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and much more. Fasig-Tipton, another supporting partner of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, is set to hold The Saratoga Sale featuring selected yearlings on August 5-6. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance representatives will be on-site to converse with consigners, buyers, and supporters to discuss accredited aftercare. In addition, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will hand out New York Thoroughbred Breeding & Development Fund co-branded rub rags to consigners of the New York Bred Yearlings Sale, which will be held August 11-12. “We are very excited to once again participate in so many industry events and spread awareness for accredited aftercare while we are at the NYRA Saratoga race meet,” said Stacie Clark Rogers, Operations Consultant, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “It’s wonderful to connect with supporters and partners during the race meet and the Fasig-Tipton Sale and to visit and meet with many of our New York accredited organizations.” While in Saratoga, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will visit accredited aftercare facilities to conduct inspections as part of the accreditation process. Staff will also meet with trainers, owners, and other supporters throughout the week to discuss accredited aftercare. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance board members will convene for an annual board meeting on Thursday, August 8. 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 inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has granted more than $31.9 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 86 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, visit thoroughbredaftercare.org. Contact Samantha Smith 859-224-2882 ssmith@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org Share This Release  

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to be Present at Saratoga Race Course for Belmont Stakes

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to be Present at Saratoga Race Course for Belmont Stakes Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to be Present at Saratoga Race Course for Belmont Stakes FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 30, 2024 News Tags:Belmont Stakes, New York Racing Association, NYRA, Saratoga Race Course, Triple Crown LEXINGTON, KY — Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present at Saratoga Race Course during the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival. The 156th Belmont Stakes Presented by NYRA Bets will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024. This exciting final leg of the Triple Crown will kick off with a week of live racing beginning on Thursday, June 6. To highlight accredited aftercare, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) has honored Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance with a named race on the undercard on Friday, June 7. Following the running of the race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections, including a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance branded blanket and gift bag. “NYRA is pleased to welcome Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to Saratoga for this year’s Belmont Stakes Racing Festival,” said Patrick McKenna, Vice President of Communications, NYRA. “This ongoing partnership reflects our shared commitment to protecting and re-training these equine athletes when their racing days are done, and we thank Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance for all they do.” Representatives from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present to host the winners of the VIP experience that was auctioned off earlier in the year in the “Off to the Races” Campaign to support accredited aftercare. The winners of this experience will enjoy a table for four and a day of racing on Friday and Saturday, admission into the paddock on Friday, and much more. This exciting VIP experience was generously donated by NYRA. 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 inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has granted more than $31.9 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 86 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, visit thoroughbredaftercare.org.   Contact Samantha Smith859-224-2882ssmith@thoroughbredaftercare.org   Emily Dresen352-362-6934edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org Share This Release

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Celebrates Successful Presence at Saratoga

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Celebrates Successful Presence at Saratoga Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Celebrates Successful Presence at Saratoga FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 17, 2023 News Tags:Community Booth, Fasig Tipton Saratoga Sale, New York Racing Association, NYRA, Saratoga, Saratoga Race Course LEXINGTON, KY — During the recent festivities at Saratoga, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance made a resounding impact, solidifying its presence and eliciting a remarkable show of attention and support from both the enthusiastic racing community and a wider audience. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance was proudly showcased as the Community Partner of the day by the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) during the Grade 1 $1 million Whitney Stakes Day. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance was able to highlight their mission and commitment to the welfare and second careers of retired Thoroughbred racehorses through accredited aftercare. Throughout the two weeks in Saratoga, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance made a significant impact through multiple avenues: NYRA’s Community Outreach Booth showcased Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s efforts and accomplishments in supporting retired racehorses and promoting their transition to post-racing careers. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance was honored with the distinction of having two named races on August 5 and August 6, drawing attention to their vital work. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s mission received a significant boost when James and Shari Ough displayed their generosity through a substantial donation of $25,000. This contribution served to reinforce the organization’s efforts and impact on the industry through accredited aftercare. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance facilitated a memorable experience for the winners of the VIP package in the Off to the Races VIP Experience Auction, donated by NYRA and the National Racing Hall of Fame, providing an exclusive insight into the world of Thoroughbred racing and accredited aftercare at the renowned Saratoga racetrack. As part of their commitment to maintaining the highest standards and practices, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance visited various facilities in Saratoga to assess accreditation requirements, ensuring the well-being of retired racehorses. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance held their annual in-person board meeting, where the board convened to discuss strategies for advancing the organization’s goals. An additional highlight was the evening hosted by the David Cassidy Legacy Group, where attendees gathered to celebrate the accomplishments and stories within aftercare and the racing industry. Stacie Clark, Operations Consultant for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, addressed the Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga, shedding light on the significance of accredited aftercare and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s mission. Finally, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who donated, with a special thank you to those within the racing community that came together and made donations in honor of Maple Leaf Mel, underscoring the collective dedication to supporting a safe landing for future Thoroughbreds. 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 inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has granted more than $31.9 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 86 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, visit thoroughbredaftercare.org. Contact Samantha Smith 859-224-2882 ssmith@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org Share This Release  

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Honored with Generous Donation from James and Shari Ough

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights   [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Honored with Generous Donation from James and Shari Ough Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Honored with Generous Donation from James and Shari Ough FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 8, 2023 News Tags:aftercare, contribution, Saratoga Race Course, supporter, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance was honored with a substantial donation of $25,000 from esteemed supporters James and Shari Ough. The charitable contribution was presented on Saturday, August 5, at Saratoga Race Course. The generous gift from James and Shari Ough stands as a testament to their steadfast commitment to equine welfare, the future of retired Thoroughbreds, and accredited aftercare. As fervent advocates, their support will greatly aid in fulfilling the vital mission of accrediting, inspecting, and awarding grants to approved aftercare organizations to retrain, retire, and rehome Thoroughbreds through industry-wide funding. “We are incredibly grateful for James and Shari Ough’s heartfelt donation to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance,” said Emily Dresen, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Director of Funding & Events. “By championing our mission, their support enables us to provide crucial aid to accredited aftercare organizations, ultimately benefiting the well-being of countless horses in their deserving retirement.” The check presentation took place following the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance named race at Saratoga Race Course, highlighting the invaluable role played by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance in safeguarding the welfare of Thoroughbreds beyond their racing days. “Shari and I are incredibly fortunate, deeply humbled, and honored to support Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and its mission to ensure a secure future for retired racehorses through accredited aftercare,” said James Ough. “Our heartfelt donation signifies not just a contribution, but a gesture of hope. It is our greatest hope that this, and future donations, will serve as an inspiration for others to unite with us in giving back to these exceptional equine athletes. We owe our success to them. Together, let’s make a lasting impact and pave the way for a brighter future for the Thoroughbred – and Thoroughbred Racing.” Photo Credit: Adam Coglianese 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 inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has granted more than $31.9 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 86 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, visit thoroughbredaftercare.org. Contact Samantha Smith 859-224-2882 ssmith@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org Share This Release  

NYRA Welcomes TAA to Saratoga Race Course on Whitney Day

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) will host the Saratoga Community Booth for Whitney Stakes Day on Aug. 6. Patrons are encouraged to stop by the community booth to learn about the organization’s mission from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance representatives, and to make a donation in exchange for a variety of racing memorabilia and TAA swag. Racing fans can also show their support by opting to donate to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance throughout the Saratoga meet when cashing a winning ticket on an AmTote International self-service betting terminal. All donations are tax deductible. On the Whitney undercard, horses will don NYRA-donated Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance saddle towels for a race named in honor of the TAA. In the winner’s circle after the race, the TAA will present awards to the best turned out horse and winning groom and connections. “The Saratoga Community Booth is a great opportunity for racing fans and participants alike to learn more about the TAA,” said TAA President, Jeffrey Bloom. “We are also honored to have the TAA represented with a race on the Whitney Day card. NYRA has been an invaluable stakeholder to the TAA for many years and we’re excited to continue the tradition of celebrating accredited aftercare on Whitney Day.” The New York Thoroughbred industry is a leader in aftercare, donating more than $1.28 million toward racehorse retirement every year. In addition to the contributions made by NYRA, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA), the New York Thoroughbred Breeders (NYTB), the NYRA jockey colony, and individual owners and trainers, two ground-breaking programs have been implemented at the NYRA tracks: owners contribute a per-start fee for every horse that races, and they pay a surcharge on every horse claimed out of a NYRA race. Those two programs alone raise about $500,000 every year. “The work of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is of the upmost importance to the New York Racing Association,” said NYRA Senior Vice President of Racing Operations, Frank Gabriel Jr. “We’re thrilled to highlight such a worthy organization on one of Saratoga’s biggest days of racing.”   Photo: Suzie Picou-Oldham

Kid Blast

Upon retirement from racing, “Kid”, as he is affectionately known, became a track pony at NYRA, his friendly and easy-going personality making him a good candidate for assisting racehorses on the track.

TAA to be Featured Throughout Whitney Weekend

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced a series of events to highlight the work of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) on Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8 at Saratoga Race Course. The TAA is the nonprofit organization that accredits, inspects, and awards grants to approved aftercare organizations to retire, retrain, and rehome Thoroughbreds using industry-wide funding. Based in Lexington, KY, the TAA is supported by owners, trainers, breeders, racetracks, aftercare professionals, and other industry members. Since inception in 2012, the TAA has granted more than $20.7 million to accredited aftercare organizations, assisting 12,900 Thoroughbreds. Currently 81 aftercare organizations supporting approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. On Saturday, August 7, the TAA will be featured at the NYRA Community Booth, where fans will be able to learn about the organization’s mission from TAA representatives, and to make a donation in exchange for a Remi Bellocq cartoon t-shirt and a variety of racing items like saddle towels and goggles. Racing fans can also show their support by opting to make a donation to the TAA throughout the Saratoga meet when cashing a winning ticket on an AmTote International self-service betting terminal. All donations are tax deductible. On Sunday, August 8 horses will don NYRA-donated TAA saddle towels for a race named in honor of the TAA. In the winner’s circle after the race, the TAA will present awards to the best turned-out horse and to the winning groom and connections. “Many consider the Whitney Stakes as the marque race for older horses at Saratoga,” said TAA President Jimmy Bell. “What better stage for the TAA to be present and share in the excitement of the day and the commitment to Thoroughbred aftercare.” “Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Weekend is a golden opportunity to share the kind of productive careers that Thoroughbreds can enjoy after they leave the track,” said Stacie Clark-Rogers of the TAA. “In many cases, these are talented and highly trainable horses who demonstrate an ability to flourish in new careers like show jumping and dressage. Training and owning these horses can be also an important and rewarding experience.” The New York Thoroughbred industry is a leader in aftercare, donating more than $1.28 million toward racehorse retirement every year. In addition to the contributions made by NYRA, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA), the New York Thoroughbred Breeders (NYTB), the NYRA jockey colony, and individual owners and trainers, there have been two ground-breaking programs implemented at the NYRA tracks. Owners pay a per-start fee for every horse that races, and they pay a surcharge on every horse claimed out of a NYRA race. Those two programs alone raise about $500,000 every year. Photo: Suzie Picou-Oldham

NYRA, NYTHA Announce New Aftercare Funding Initiative

The New York Racing Association and New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association announced June 28 an initiative to increase funding for aftercare for horses retiring from NYRA racetracks.