This Old Horse: Showcase & Open House

Since 2021, This Old Horse and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Equine Studies program partnered in an annual class offering called Racehorse Retraining. Off-track Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds are matched with students who partner in the 12-week course that ends with a ‘show what you know’ showcase and adoption auction.   Students audition for spots in the class and learn the skills and techniques needed to transition a horse from a racehorse to a sport horse. Students are required to complete midterm and final sales videos for their assigned horse to learn marketing techniques.  Follow on Facebook!  https://www.facebook.com/UWRFRacehorseRetrainingProgram One of the highlights of the holiday season, the showcase is open to the public and features presentations from the Minnesota racing industry.

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga: 100 Days to Belmont

Horseshoe Inn Bar and Grill 9 Gridley St, Saratoga Springs, NY, United States

As the Belmont Stakes countdown begins, the community is invited to enjoy a casual mid-winter fundraising event to support local Veterans and retired racehorses. On February 27, 2025, the Horseshoe Inn Bar and Grill will host an evening of live music, dining, and charitable giving, benefiting Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga’s (THS) Freedom Rein program. The event aims to raise $5,000 to sponsor four Veterans or Service Members for an eight-week Equine Therapy Group. The Freedom Rein program provides therapeutic interactions with retired racehorses, offering participants a unique and impactful form of mental health support. Event Highlights: Live music provided by Jeff Walton Buffet dinner included with admission Cash bar with a selection of drinks available Spotlight on retired racehorses thriving in second careers Raffle featuring exclusive items and experiences, with proceeds directly benefiting THS Veterans’ Program Event Details: 📅 Date: February 27, 2025⏰ Time: 6:00–10:00 PM📍 Location: Horseshoe Inn Bar and Grill, 9 Gridley St, Saratoga Springs, NY🎟️ Tickets: $55 | Available at thsaratoga.org/events The event serves as both a tribute to Service Members and an opportunity to support the retired racehorses that play a vital role in Equine Therapy. All proceeds will contribute to the expansion of services for those who have served their country. About Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga Founded in 2018, Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS) is accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.  The organization provides a safe and nurturing sanctuary environment for 27 retired Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses, utilizing them in programs built around the Horse-Human connection to support mental health, wellness and personal growth.  Working in partnership with ECS Psychological Services P.C., THS provides the therapy horses and peaceful farm environment to deliver Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to children, families and adults including military veterans, active servicemembers and their dependents through its Freedom Rein Program. In 2024, THS facilitated more than 500 hours of EAP to individuals of all ages from across the Capital Region.  In addition to the organization’s collaboration with ECS, THS directly offers programs focused on personal growth, wellness and education through TeamBuilding, HorsePlay, Field Trips and Farm Experiences to the community at large. For more information, visit www.thsaratoga.org.

CKRH: Paul Frazer Combined Test & Dressage Show

Kentucky Horse Park 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY, United States

The Paul Frazer Memorial Combined Test and Dressage Competition is dedicated to a former CKRH Board Member who worked to remove physical barriers facing children with special needs. Paul designed the first accessible bus in the Fayette County Public Schools, and his design later served as a model for all accessible buses in Kentucky. As director of maintenance for Fayette County schools, Paul oversaw the construction of ramps, installation of elevators and other structural remodeling to ensure access for every student. This year you will be able to see first-hand the hard work that just a few of our clients have put in to their connection with horses. If you see a rider with a blue saddle pad, feel free to say hi and congratulate them on their accomplishments, many of them at their first horse show! Thank you for supporting Central Kentucky Riding for Hope with our Paul Frazer Memorial Combined Test and Dressage Show and good luck this show season! Registration Opens February 4!