Final Furlong, founded in 2009 by Stephanie Brennan, has placed over 100 graduates of Niall Brennan Stables into new homes or safe and secure retirement while establishing itself as a leader in Thoroughbred aftercare.

Final Furlong offers its services to all graduates of Niall Brennan Stables and also to clients of Niall Brennan Stables who are in need of a retirement home for their horses.  In addition, the Final Furlong team, comprised of Brennan and volunteers, scans entries for at-risk runners who are heading down in class. Using funds garnered through donations and grants, the organization acquires these targeted racehorses and brings them to its Ocala, Fla., base, where they remain for rehab and evaluation until deemed ready to move forward.

There are no adoption fees, though prospective new owners are thoroughly screened. A contract must be completed, accompanied by a letter from an industry professional indicating their ability to care for an off-the-track Thoroughbred. An additional letter from the veterinarian and the blacksmith who will care for the horse also is required, along with photos of the new home.

Brennan has worked alongside her husband, trainer Niall Brennan, developing some of America’s top racehorses, including Gun Runner, Essential Quality, Nyquist, Early Voting, Orb, Palace Malice, and champion Dayatthespa to name a few.  Although not all graduates become famous, our whole team is always excited to see the retired horses arrive home knowing they will have a second career.

Final Furlong graduates have gone on to excel as show horses, fox hunters, eventers, dressage horses, and even circus performers!  If a horse is not deemed sound enough to rehome, Final Furlong will offer lifetime sanctuary to the horse.

According to Stephanie Brennan, “Final Furlong simply wants to give the horses who have given so much to us an opportunity to excel at another career.”