TAA to Sponsor Freestyle Division at RRP's Annual Event

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will return to the Retired Racehorse Project's Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium this year as the exclusive title sponsor of the Freestyle discipline. The 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium will take place October 6-10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. The Thoroughbred Makeover showcases the talent and versatility of off-track Thoroughbreds while supporting their transition to successful second careers. The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Freestyle discipline will take place on Thursday, October 8, beginning at 8 a.m. in the Covered Arena. Freestyle is a free-form competition that allows trainers to showcase the skills and abilities of their Thoroughbreds through a performance of their choosing. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will also be on-site throughout the Thoroughbred Makeover, with a booth in the vendor fair where attendees can learn more about accredited aftercare and the organizations working to provide lifelong care and retraining for Thoroughbreds following their racing careers. Branded merchandise will be available in exchange for donations, with proceeds directly supporting accredited aftercare programs that provide lifelong care and retraining for Thoroughbreds. The 2026 Thoroughbred Makeover will also feature 54 Thoroughbreds adopted through Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited organizations competing in the event. These 54 Thoroughbreds represent 16 accredited organizations spanning the country, from California to New York and points in between. Based on current entries, 13 graduates are competing in the Freestyle discipline, highlighting the continued impact of accredited aftercare organizations in preparing retired Thoroughbreds for successful second careers. "We're grateful for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance's continued support of the Thoroughbred Makeover", said RRP Executive Director, Kirsten Green. "It not only highlights the impact of accredited aftercare but also the importance of increasing demand for Thoroughbreds and the influence that has in creating sustainable outcomes for our collective aftercare efforts." "We are grateful to the Retired Racehorse Project for providing a platform that celebrates the versatility of Thoroughbreds and the people who help them transition into their next careers," said Stacie Clark Rogers, Operations Consultant, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. "The Thoroughbred Makeover is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of Thoroughbreds after racing and the important work being done by accredited aftercare organizations across the country. We are proud to support the Freestyle discipline and to be part of this year's event." The Thoroughbred Makeover will bring together trainers, riders, owners, industry professionals and Thoroughbred enthusiasts to celebrate the many possibilities available to retired racehorses. Through its sponsorship and on-site presence, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will continue to raise awareness of accredited aftercare and the organizations dedicated to providing Thoroughbreds with quality care and opportunities for new careers after racing.