when the winning stops, the thoroughbred retirement foundation steps in

kim weir

Aired May 3, 2019

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Founded in 1983, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s mission is clear and simply stated: to save Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete on the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse and slaughter.

The sad truth is that a vast majority of the general public and even many racing fans are unaware of the sad fate that awaits thousands of Thoroughbreds each year. They assume each horse is assured a safe and graceful retirement once his racing days are over. Their perception of the “Sport of Kings” is one where great personal wealth and lifelong benevolence to all horses are givens.  Unfortunately, this perception does not reflect reality.

Because the reality is that the Thoroughbred industry is made up largely of owners with only modest resources. And current economics dictate that among all owners, no matter how responsible and well-intended, only a relatively few are capable of maintaining even a single Thoroughbred once it is unable to earn its keep on the track.  The reality is also that horse meat is in demand in many foreign countries and over 10,000 American racehorses each year are shipped to slaughterhouses in Canada and Mexico. 

And this is the reality the TRF is determined to change.