Photo © Courtesy of LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society
Formed approximately 21 years ago by a group of thoroughbred racehorse owners and trainers concerned that there was no formal aftercare program in place for their racehorses, LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society, a registered charity, is mandated to provide Ontario‘s equine athletes with a dignified retirement once their days at the racetrack are done, and to educate horse people and the general public as to the merits of this program.
Well supported by Ontario‘s racing industry, Long Run has transitioned countless horses by resting, rehabilitating, retraining and placing them into loving adoptive homes. For those horses whose age, temperament or physicality prevents them from embarking on a new career, LongRun offers permanent sanctuary and possible inclusion in the equine assisted educational and therapy programs, sponsored by Woodbine Entertainment, we normally offer at our 100 acre Hillsburgh farm. LongRun has, in the past, welcomed groups from Ernestine‘s Women‘s Shelter, Girls Inc., Covenant House, Albion Boys and Girls Club and Probus.
LongRun is also home to a number of “Stable Stars”, horses whose achievements would be instantly recognized and appreciated by racing fans and who continue to be supported by their racetrack connections. These Stable Stars, who include 2017 Canadian Horse of the Year Pink Lloyd, champions Riker and Fifty Proof, and millionaire Something Extra, are very happy to meet and accept treats from their adoring public at the open houses we host.
LongRun currently receives .50 of one percent of Ontario‘s thoroughbred purse monies and is accredited for grants by Thoroughbred Charities of America and The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. We are also heavily dependent on monetary and product donations and volunteers. LongRun currently cares for close to 60 retirees and are planning our first public open house since the pandemic on Saturday, July 9th, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
About LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society:
LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society is a non-profit organization. The purpose of our organization pertains to the welfare of our thoroughbred racehorses when they are no longer able to compete. Our mission is to find them loving, adoptive homes and, perhaps, alternative careers, ensuring them the dignified and happy retirement they so richly deserve. In addition, we aim to educate our owners, trainers, breeders and the general public about the merits of this humane alternative.
