Race for Aftercare and Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) are working together to help Thoroughbreds find homes after their racing careers end. The first two Thoroughbreds who will be impacted by this innovative partnership are Jackism and Primela, Thoroughbreds rescued by KHS's Equine C.A.R.E. (Connect, Assist, Rescue, Educate) team.
In addition to adopting Primela and Jackism, Race for Aftercare will foster an adoptable KHS Thoroughbred at Hermitage Farm. The hope is that more potential adopters will be able to meet the horses at such a well-known and respected farm. The partnership between KHS and Race for Aftercare will be commemorated with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce on April 7 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Hermitage Farm.
Jackism and Primela are set to arrive at Hermitage Farm at 2:00 p.m. thanks to Sallee Vanning, with the ribbon cutting and a reception to follow. "KHS's equine program was created with the intent to connect, assist, rescue, and educate," said Lori Redmon, Equine Director for KHS. "We hope that our partnership with Race for Aftercare will help us continue doing just that. We can connect with more adopters by having rescued or retired Thoroughbreds fostered at Hermitage Farm. As ambassadors for Race for Aftercare, Primela and Jackism will assist other Thoroughbreds in finding new homes after their racing careers end. KHS can continue expanding our mission of rescuing equines in need. And we will all work together to educate our community about the importance of humane care for retired racehorses."
Race for Aftercare first learned of KHS's equine program when KHS rescued the 13 Thoroughbred and Paso Fino horses in December 2024. The horses were found, neglected and malnourished, in Franklin County, Kentucky, living in deplorable conditions with limited access to food and water. KHS responded immediately, rescuing and bringing them to Willow Hope Farm for assessment and rehabilitation. Primela, one of the Thoroughbreds found with the 'Franklin County 13' made a remarkable recovery over the course of a few months and will soon live out her days at Hermitage Farm, where Race for Aftercare will house her and Jackism, alongside other rescued Thoroughbreds in their lifetime sanctuary. As the producer of more than 200 stakes winners and a premier thoroughbred facility, specializing in breeding, foaling, sales preparation and layup services, Hermitage Farm's expert staff provides daily care for these horses, while Race for Aftercare supports them financially. As KHS continues to identify vulnerable horses in need, Hermitage Farm will keep its barn doors open for them. At Hermitage Farm, the horses always come first.
"I am very excited to announce the working partnership between Hermitage Farm, Race for Aftercare and the Kentucky Humane Society Equine Division," said Steve Wilson, Owner of Hermitage Farm. "Through Hermitage Farm's agrotourism experience and Barn8 Restaurant, the general public has the opportunity to meet retired racehorses while learning about Kentucky's signature industry. These former racehorses are industry ambassadors, allowing guests to interact with them, as well as aid in fundraising for future Race for Aftercare's Kentucky Humane Society adoptable horses stabled at Hermitage Farm."
"For me, horse racing became a lifelong passion at twelve, thanks to my grandfather's introduction to Hialeah Park, igniting a love that has only deepened over the years," said Ted Mizerak, Board Chair and President for Race for Aftercare. "In 2010, seeking deeper involvement in horse racing, my wife Robin and I moved from South Florida to Louisville, a hub of equestrian culture. As we contemplated our legacy, and as breeders and owners, we felt a duty to support the horses that have brought us so much joy. Thus, Race for Aftercare was established to provide futures for horses unable to pursue other careers after racing."
