Letter to the Industry: John Phillips

Despite the world seemingly on hold, the TAA is moving forward, albeit with some improvisation given the circumstances, but forward nonetheless.

Specifically, the accreditation process for 2020 is well underway and functioning as normal as the team is currently reviewing the submitted applications.

Now more than ever, our 74 accredited organizations with their 160 facilities need support. We are striving to maintain regular contact with these aftercare soldiers on the ground and provide them with as much information and assistance as possible.

Although informal surveys do not suggest a wave of heightened demand for aftercare at this point, we are working on strengthening triage systems and monitoring capacity at various facilities. The circumstances have enhanced the communication with the TAA and the networking between our aftercare partners.

You may already know that when the magnitude of the pandemic became clear, our midyear grants were expedited so that our accredited organizations could receive those grants in early April, nearly four weeks ahead of the typical disbursement.

In times of trial, you learn who your real friends are. I am so pleased to tell you that so many of our relationships have stepped up, especially financially. One such impressive example of support is from NYRA and NYTHA. Despite racing's suspension in New York, NYRA and NYTHA calculated their estimated contribution based on the $10 per starter fee and made a corresponding contribution. This gesture is more than just money, it is a commitment to and understanding of our financial ecosystem and unique equine culture. The TAA cannot thank them enough for their support and leadership, and we hope you join us by expressing your appreciation to them as well.

While many of our events have been rescheduled and the staff is working mostly from home, the TAA remains focused on its mission of accreditation and awarding grants. Watch for our updates on our website and postings on social media. We will keep you informed and we will join you in keeping the faith. We will get through this together.

John Phillips
Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance President