The horses are the real stars of our sport. Their beauty, athleticism and competitive spirit compel fans to follow them throughout their racing careers and beyond. So when it comes time for these magnificent horses to retire from the racetrack, Keeneland, in partnership with the Thoroughbred industry, assists aftercare programs that transition them to loving homes and often, productive second careers in other equine disciplines.
In 2012, Keeneland joined a broad-based group of Thoroughbred industry partners to establish the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) – an organization designed to serve as both the accrediting body for aftercare facilities for retired Thoroughbreds and as a fundraising body to support these approved facilities.
Funded initially by seed money from Breeders’ Cup, The Jockey Club and Keeneland, the TAA is comprised of owners, trainers, breeders, racetracks, jockeys, aftercare professionals and other industry groups.
Keeneland, its longtime partner, Maker’s Mark Distillery, philanthropist and horse owner Marylou Whitney, and Dr. Tony Ryan’s Castleton-Lyons Farm, joined forces in October 2004 to launch the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center at the Kentucky Horse Park. The Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center is dedicated to retraining and showcasing adoptable Thoroughbreds.
Visit one of these sites to learn more about Thoroughbred Retirement Programs: