Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Archives - Page 15 of 34

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Represented at Belmont Park

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Third Annual Calendar Photo Contest Now Open

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Third Annual Calendar Photo Contest Now Open Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Third Annual Calendar Photo Contest Now Open FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1, 2023 News Tags:2024 Calendar, Calendar Contest, Photo contest, Repole Stable, TAA, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, Tipperary, Tipperary Equestrian LEXINGTON, KY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Calendar Photo Contest is now open for submissions. For the third year, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is seeking photos of Thoroughbreds to feature in the 2024 Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Calendar sponsored by Repole Stable. Photos for the calendar should feature a registered Thoroughbred that is either in residence at or rehomed by a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredited facility. High-resolution color photos taken within the past year are preferred. Example themes of photos include: a Thoroughbred showcased in a specific season (spring, winter, fall, summer), a Thoroughbred in training for a second career, a happy adopter and his or her Thoroughbred, a Thoroughbred used in equine-assisted therapy, and so on. Photographs must be relevant to the mission of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and align with all other criteria set forth in the official contest rules. Judged on clarity, artistry, and photographic quality, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will select twelve winners—one featured photo for each month. Each winner will receive a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance swag bag and one free copy of the calendar. Out of the twelve winners, one will be selected to be featured on the cover of the calendar and will receive a Tipperary 9300 Ultra Helmet as the grand prize, sponsored by Tipperary Equestrian. “We are so excited to begin work on the 2024 calendar generously sponsored once again by Repole Stable,” said Emily Dresen, Director of Funding & Events, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “We look forward to all the amazing photos showing off our accredited organization’s Thoroughbreds and a big thank you to our friends at Tipperary for sponsoring our grand prize.” Entry to the contest is free and open to residents of the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The contest is open to participants 18+ or with parent/guardian permission for those under the age of 18. Online submissions will be accepted now through June 30, 2023. For more information, the official rules, and the contest submission form, visit: www.thoroughbredaftercare.org/calendar-contest/ 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 Successful Week at Preakness

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Successful Week at Preakness Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Successful Week at Preakness FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 2023 News Tags:1/st, 1/ST Racing, America’s Best Racing, Beyond the Wire, Black Eyed Susan, Black-Eyed Susan Day, Maryland Jockey Club, Pimlico Race Course, Preakness Stakes, TAA, TAA-accredited, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance LEXINGTON, KY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance had a successful week in Maryland during the Preakness week celebrations. Accredited aftercare awareness was promoted with several on-site activations, as well as an exceptional turn out for the America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party. The ABR Pre-Preakness Party to benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance kicked off the week at Mt. Washington Tavern. A total of $25,000 was raised from a silent auction, ticket sales, and donations. There were over 160 people in attendance throughout the night including owners, trainers, fans, and industry participants. “It was an absolute honor to once again partner with the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance on what has turned into a must-attend event on the racing calendar every year,” said Dan Tordjman, Manager, Business Development/Sponsorships, America’s Best Racing. “We want to thank everyone who supported Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance at the party and via the online auction. We look forward to seeing this event grow next year and beyond.” A combined effort from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance partners 1/ST RACING, Maryland Jockey Club, and Pimlico Race Course put accredited aftercare on the frontline throughout Preakness week. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance presented Race #8 on Black-Eyed Susan Day, Friday, May 19. The winning horse, #2 Fort Warren, was trained by Brittany T. Russell, ridden by jockey Sheldon Russell, and owned by Madeket Stables LLC, Starlight Racing, SF Racing LLC, Robert E. Masterson, Stonestreet Stables LLC, Jay A. Schoenfarber, Waves Edge Capital LLC, and Catherine Donovan. On Saturday, May 20, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance presented the Sir Barton Stakes sponsored by Brandon and Diannah Perry to Benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Paragon Farms, founded by Thoroughbred owners and breeders, Brandon and Diannah Perry, entered into an agreement to annually donate $100,000 to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance as the title sponsor of the Sir Barton Stakes for three consecutive years beginning with Preakness 147. The winning horse, #4 Arabian Lion, was trained by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance supporter Bob Baffert and ridden by jockey John Velazquez. Owned by Zedan Racing Stables, Inc, Arabian Lion was also the winner of the Best Turned Out Horse Award for Race #4. “Diannah and I are privileged to be able to advance the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s mission, with our sponsorship of the Sir Barton Stakes,” said Brandon and Diannah Perry, Paragon Farms. “We are honored to be able to champion the rehabilitation, retraining, and rehoming of these amazing Thoroughbreds that give all of us so much joy. To see the horses that give everything to their owners, trainers, grooms, and fans be able to enjoy life after the race track is truly rewarding.” On both Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness Day, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance hosted the Best Turned Out Awards in the Pimlico Race Course winner’s circle for each race sponsored by Beyond the Wire and Fidelity First. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance also had a booth where race fans and participants could learn more about accredited aftercare and take home branded merchandise and race memorabilia in exchange for donations. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Operations Consultant, Stacie Clark Rogers, and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance President, Jeffrey Bloom, continued to promote accredited aftercare through interviews with BloodHorse and America’s Best Racing. “The inclusion of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance in the Preakness underscores the significance of aftercare within the Thoroughbred Industry,” said Stacie Clark Rogers. “We truly appreciate the ongoing support from ABR, 1/ST RACING, and Maryland Jockey Club as well as the ongoing endorsement from the winning connections and the generous sponsorship of Paragon Farm, Beyond the Wire, and Fidelity First. These collaborative efforts serve as a reminder of our collective commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the horse.” 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

Bidding Now Open for Silent Auction at America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Bidding Now Open for Silent Auction at America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party Bidding Now Open for Silent Auction at America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 15, 2023 News Tags:ABR, America’s Best Racing, Auction, Pre-Preakness Party, Preakness Stakes, Silent Auction, TAA, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance LEXINGTON, KY — Bidding is now open for the silent auction benefitting the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance at America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party. While items will be on display for viewing at the Pre-Preakness party, the auction is open to the public and all bidding will be done online. Auction items include an exciting assortment of racing memorabilia, fine art, and more. The eighth annual Pre-Preakness Party is set to be held on Wednesday, May 17, at the Mt. Washington Tavern in Baltimore, Maryland. Tickets are available online at: www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-annual-pre-preakness-party-by-thoroughbred-aftercare-alliance-abr-tickets-596988597967 For individuals that are not present at the party, items will be shipped to the winning bidder (shipping costs will apply). To register and bid, visit: https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=abrparty Bidding will close on Wednesday, May 17 at 9:45 PM EDT. Some of highlights of items available include: Flightline halter in custom-built shadow box with Flightline hat and photo of Breeders’ Cup Classic victory run Paintings by Donna B Fine Art Various autographed saddle towels, including Flightline and Mage Brook Ledge Horse Transportation: one box stall shipment credit Christine A. Moore Millinery fascinator A seven-night stay for two people in a beautiful one-bedroom waterfront condo in St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands Maryland Million Day VIP Package Two Family Portrait Sessions and fine art portraits at Refocus Portrait Studio “We are so grateful to all our donors and supporters that have contributed an incredible selection of items. We look forward to seeing everyone at the ABR Pre-Preakness Party on Wednesday!” said Emily Dresen, Director of Funding & Events, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. 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 Present at Preakness

All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights [wpdreams_ajaxsearchlite] Previous PostNext Post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Present at Preakness Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Present at Preakness FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 10, 2023 News Tags:1/st, 1/ST Racing, Black Eyed Susan, Maryland Jockey Club, Pimlico, Pimlico Race Course, Preakness Stakes, TAA, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance LEXINGTON, KY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be on-site this year with several activations during Preakness week. The 148th Preakness Stakes will take place at Pimlico Race Course on Saturday, May 20, 2023. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will kick off the week with America’s Best Racing’s Pre-Preakness Party. The eighth annual Pre-Preakness Party will be held on Wednesday, May 17, at the Mt. Washington Tavern in Baltimore, Maryland. The evening will consist of networking, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, an entertaining handicapping challenge with guest analysts, and a silent auction. All proceeds of the party and auction will benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Tickets are still available online at: www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-annual-pre-preakness-party-by-thoroughbred-aftercare-alliance-abr-tickets-596988597967 Throughout the race days of Preakness week, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance supporters 1/ST RACING, Maryland Jockey Club, and Pimlico Race Course will promote aftercare awareness. “We are excited to have such an important organization celebrate Preakness weekend with us,” said Georganne Hale, Vice President of Racing Development of Maryland Jockey Club. “The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is so important for the industry, and we are happy to showcase them when all eyes are on Preakness!” On Friday, May 19, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be recognized with a named race on the undercard of Black-Eyed Susan Day. Following the running of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections including a branded blanket and swag bag. On Saturday, May 20, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will present the Sir Barton Stakes Sponsored by Brandon and Diannah Perry to Benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Paragon Farms, founded by Thoroughbred owners and breeders, Brandon and Diannah Perry, entered into an agreement to annually donate $100,000 to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance as the title sponsor of the Sir Barton Stakes for three consecutive years beginning with the Preakness 147. Following the running of the race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections including a branded blanket and swag bag, as well as a check presentation to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance from Paragon Farms. On both Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness Day, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will host the Best Turned Out Awards in the Pimlico Race Course winner’s circle for each race. Additionally, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will have an information table to learn more about accredited aftercare and to make a donation in exchange for branded merchandise and Preakness-day memorabilia. Throughout the week, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will facilitate winning guests from one of the VIP experiences auctioned off earlier this year in the “Off to the Races” campaign, promoting aftercare awareness. In addition to the Pre-Preakness Party and a weekend of racing, this experience also includes a sunrise tour, the Alibi Breakfast, and access to join the simulcast for a race on the Black-Eyed Susan undercard. Finally, the guests will also join the winner’s circle for the Sir Barton Stakes on Preakness Day. This experience celebrating the second leg of the Triple Crown was generously donated by 1/ST RACING and America’s Best Racing. “The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is extremely appreciative of how the 1/ST RACING has always opened its arms to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance,” said Jeffrey Bloom, President of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and Managing Director of Bloom Racing Stable. “Being a part of major race days is important to highlight that we as an industry are behind the care and welfare of our horses, and we are once again delighted to be representing our 81 accredited organizations across North America throughout Preakness week.” 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 Present at Churchill Downs During Kentucky Derby Week

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present this year at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week for a variety of exciting events culminating in the running of the 149th Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve which takes place on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Represented on Jeff Ruby Steaks Day at Turfway Park

LEXINGTON, KY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be represented with a named race on Jeff Ruby Steaks Day at Turfway Park on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Jeff Ruby Steaks Day brings an afternoon of racing highlighted by the $700,000 Jeff Ruby Steaks, a Grade III prep-race for the Kentucky Derby. Held on the synthetic Tapeta track, the 1 1/8 mile race garners Kentucky Derby qualification points distributed as 100-40-30-20-10 to the top five horses. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Race will be Race 6, with a post time of 3:13 PM EDT. Following the running of the race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections including a branded blanket and swag bag. Turfway Park will feature and promote accredited aftercare awareness throughout the race day. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will have a booth to interact and promote accredited aftercare on-site. “Turfway is proud to stand behind the great work of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and host them once again on such a special day of racing,” said Turfway Park Director of Racing & Racing Secretary, Tyler B. Picklesimer. “The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is excited to be back at Turfway for the 2023 Jeff Ruby Steaks!” said Emily Dresen, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Director, Funding & Events. “We look forward to a fantastic day of racing and celebrating with fellow fans, industry participants and the Turfway Park team.” Contact Stacie Clark 859-230-5881 sclark@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org About the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Based in Lexington, KY, the 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, 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 $28.1 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 81 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about the TAA, visit ThoroughbredAftercare.org.

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance On-Site at Tampa Bay Derby

LEXINGTON, KY — The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be featured at Tampa Bay Downs with a named race on the Tampa Bay Derby undercard on Saturday, March 11. Following the running of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections including a branded blanket and swag bag. Tampa Bay Downs, a longtime supporter of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, will feature and promote accredited aftercare awareness throughout the race day and race meet. As part of Tampa Bay Down’s support, a VIP experience has been donated to the winners of the January 2023 Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance “Off to the Races” online benefit auction of bucket list racing events. This all-inclusive VIP experience consists of dining, premium seating, winner’s circle access, and more. “We are excited to have Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance on-site during the Tampa Bay Derby with a featured race and hosting a VIP experience,” said Margo Flynn, Vice President of Marketing and Publicity at Tampa Bay Downs. “We value aftercare and think this is a great opportunity to promote everything that the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance does on one of our biggest race days.” “The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is thrilled to have such longstanding support from Tampa Bay Downs” said Emily Dresen, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Director, Funding & Events. “Accredited aftercare is important to Tampa Bay Downs, and they continue to promote safe and proper aftercare for our equine athletes through a variety of avenues, and we are so excited to be here for the Tampa Bay Derby.” Contact Stacie Clark 859-230-5881 sclark@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org About the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Based in Lexington, KY, the 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, 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 $28.1 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 81 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about the TAA, visit ThoroughbredAftercare.org.

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Announces Hiring of New Director of Marketing and Communications

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is pleased to announce the hiring of Samantha Smith, who will be joining the team as the new Director of Marketing and Communications, effective February 27, 2023. Samantha brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position. A graduate from the University of Kentucky’s animal science program, Samantha has ten years of Thoroughbred industry work experience including five years of industry marketing and communications with a variety of equine associations, including TOBA, The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, and the Horse Racing Women’s Summit. In her new role, Samantha will be responsible for leading and overseeing all marketing initiatives at the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. She will work closely with the executive team, the Communications Committee, and TAA’s accredited organizations to develop and implement marketing strategies that align with the company’s overall goals and objectives. “We are excited to have Samantha Smith join the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance as our Marketing and Communications Director,” said TAA President Jeff Bloom. “As the TAA has grown over the years our demand for professional communications and marketing has expanded. Her wealth of experience in addition to her passion for aftercare will be a great asset to our team.” Already an advocate for Thoroughbred Aftercare, when not working Samantha can be found riding her Godolphin rehomed off-the-track Thoroughbred Superfection, aka “Shaylon.” “In my professional career I have a keen interest in the sport of Thoroughbred racing, particularly in any area where I can support efforts to promote and grow the sport, educate others, or improve safety, welfare, and aftercare initiatives,” Samantha said. “In my personal life, with my own former racehorse, I especially have a passion for Thoroughbred aftercare. I look forward to joining the team at TAA and promoting all the Thoroughbred has to offer after racing.” About the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Based in Lexington, KY, the 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, 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 $28.1 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently 81 aftercare organizations comprised of approximately 180 facilities across North America have been granted accreditation. To learn more about the TAA, visit ThoroughbredAftercare.org. CONTACT Stacie Clark 859-230-5881 sclark@thoroughbredaftercare.org Emily Dresen 352-362-6934 edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org

Digger

By: Mary Eddy/NYRA When a graded stakes-placed dark bay gelding named Digger crossed the finish line third in the 2011 Mister Diz at Pimlico Race Course, his connections knew it was time for the veteran of 39 starts to turn the page and look to a new life beyond the racetrack. It was then that he was sent to New Vocations – a non-profit that retrains and rehomes retired racehorses – and adopted by Verena Brassfield to spend the rest of his days on a tranquil 600-acre farm in Tennessee. “I’ve always had a thing for thoroughbreds and I couldn’t ask for a better horse,” said Brassfield. “I had a thoroughbred before him who passed away, and at first, I didn’t want another horse. But then someone gave my husband the website for New Vocations, and the first picture I saw was my baby. I said, ‘That’s him.’ A week after I applied, I got a call that I was approved.” Digger, a Maryland-bred son of Yonaguska, made his first outing as a juvenile in 2006 and graduated at fourth asking by an impressive 9 1/2 lengths that December at Laurel Park. As a sophomore, he captured three more stakes at Laurel in the Deputed Testamony by a dominating 11 3/4 lengths, the Northern Dancer and the Jennings Handicap to close out the year. In 2008, Digger moved north to the NYRA circuit, where he scored a pair of victories at Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. The following year saw his greatest Empire State successes when he earned four victories at NYRA tracks, led by a determined score in the Gravesend to cap his productive campaign. Ridden by Rosie Napravnik, Digger showed his typical frontrunning tactics and raced with Pashito the Che tracking close in second. Digger put 1 1/2 lengths between him and Pashito the Che at the stretch call and was able to fend off his determined rival by a nose in a final time of 1:11.66 for six furlongs over the inner dirt. Digger earned one more stakes victory to kick off his 2010 campaign with a 3 3/4-length victory in Laurel Park’s Fire Plug, and visited the winner’s circle for the last time in March 2011 before owner Repole Stable and trainer Bruce Brown decided to retire the evergreen veteran at age 7. “I watched the replays of his races and if someone had told me then that one day he would be mine, I would have told them they were crazy,” Brassfield said. “He was a good racehorse, and he could run, and still can. When he takes off in the paddock, he leaves everybody behind.” Digger was sent to one of New Vocations’ Ohio facilities where he was cared for until Brassfield saw his posting and applied for adoption in the spring of 2012. It was not long before she was approved, and Digger found his forever home. While Digger needed a great deal of patience and commitment to learn how to be ridden beyond racing, Brassfield was determined to help the beloved gelding settle down and enjoy his retirement. New Vocations, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was founded by Dot Morgan in 1992 and is one of 81 facilities accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA), an accrediting body that fundraises and awards funds to its accredited organizations throughout the year. The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) and its horsemen support the efforts of the TAA with each owner who participates at a NYRA racetrack donating $10 per start to thoroughbred aftercare. Additionally, horsemen donate 1.5 percent of the purchase price of horses claimed on the circuit to the TAA and to the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association’s (NYTHA) TAKE THE LEAD program, which provides veterinary exams and the funds for transportation and retraining costs for horses at NYRA racetracks. “Digger was donated to our program on February 5, 2012, by Mike Repole and was in our program for four months before he was adopted,” said Anna Ford, the Thoroughbred Program Director for New Vocations. “He was a very classy guy.” Brassfield said Digger has been the best teacher she could ask for. “He’s so happy, but in the beginning, he was crazy,” said Brassfield, with a laugh. “He was headstrong and if the boy doesn’t like you, you’ll know it. He’s honest, and I said, ‘Even if I can’t ever ride him, he has his forever home.’ He gives me everything I need just by being here. He taught me more than any horse could have taught me.” 10 years after stepping off the racetrack and with much patience and gradual improvements, Digger enjoys some light riding and flatwork and has settled in beautifully to his retirement. Brassfield describes Digger as “a puppy,” his gentle nature and intelligence allowing him to teach even the youngest of horse lovers. “I started training him and working with him every day,” said Brassfield. “He’s good with kids – another boarder at the farm says Digger is the only horse she trusts with her 3-year-old daughter. He’s not spooky, he’s willing and there’s nothing I can’t throw at him that’s he’s not willing to accept. He has a sense of humor and likes things a certain way.” Digger, who once ran Beyer Speed Figures exceeding 100, leads a quieter life these days, enjoying his time out of the spotlight and with his devoted owner. Though he is a bit limited in his abilities under tack, Digger enjoys the occasional trail ride and flatwork, along with his time to himself in his large paddock with a herd of friends. “He does trail riding and we did lessons for a little dressage, but other than that, he’s leisure and pleasure. He has 30 or 40 acres to roam with about eight other horses. He loves it and loves being out there,” Brassfield said. “All the mares in the pasture are his according to him. He has made one friend that came two months ago, a quarter horse

Tag: Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance