FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LEXINGTON, KY — Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present at Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for the Tampa Bay Derby. The organization’s presence underscores Tampa Bay Downs’ ongoing commitment to supporting accredited aftercare and promoting the welfare of Thoroughbreds beyond their racing careers.
Tampa Bay Downs will highlight accredited aftercare by honoring Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance with a named race on the Tampa Bay Derby undercard. Following the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance race, a winner’s circle presentation will take place. Winning connections will be given a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance blanket and gift bag.
A representative from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will also be on-site to host the winners of the VIP Experience from the “Off to the Races” online benefit auction. Generously donated by Tampa Bay Downs, the winners of the VIP Experience will enjoy a day of racing, access to the paddock and winner’s circle for the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Race, tickets to the Yankees v. Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, and more.
“We are thrilled to return to Tampa Bay Downs for the 2026 Tampa Bay Derby,” Tom Cannell, previous board member and host of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance VIP guests during the event. “Tampa Bay Downs continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to accredited aftercare, and we are grateful for their ongoing partnership and the opportunity to engage with race fans while highlighting the important work being done to support Thoroughbreds beyond their racing careers.”
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 $40.74 million to accredited aftercare organizations. Currently, 86 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 Alliance
859-224-2756
info@thoroughbredaftercare.org
Fundraising & Events
Emily Dresen
352-362-6934
edresen@thoroughbredaftercare.org
Media Contact
Samantha Smith