The Maryland Horse Breeders Association (MHBA) has announced the creation of an aftercare account that will direct funds to support Maryland-bred racehorses as they are retired and preparing for their second career.
The account, called BackStop, will be funded by extracting a $25 fee from each Maryland-bred registration submitted. BackStop funds will not replace or relieve the responsibility of the owner, breeder or trainer to arrange for aftercare for their retirees. Funds will be disperses on an as-available basis up to $2,000 and are to be used as adjunct support for a specific use or aid to an individual or a group that takes in, retrains or rehomes registered Maryland-bred Thoroughbreds.
“We are committed to working with people who are dedicated to giving these Maryland-breds a new start and a safe landing,” said Cricket Goodall, executive director of the MHBA. “We know that breeders and owners want the best for their horses. This fund will be available for a specific use that benefits the Maryland-bred horse that needs the help.”
Added Alice Peirce, manager of Mantua Farm in Reisterstown and a member of the MHBA Aftercare Committee: “It makes it possible for people to get into this or take a horse that maybe they wouldn't have been able to take, so I think it's great. I usually take a loss on horses I have to rehab, and it's fine because this is what I like to do, but I understand that not all people can do that. I know a lot of other people in my shoes would be able to consider more horses this way.”
BackStop funds are not to be used for capital improvements or expenses that do not apply specifically to the horse named in the application. BackStop, the MHBA aftercare account, will not take the place of other funds or assistance received from TAA, TRF, TCA, Beyond the Wire or any other aftercare programs already in place.
For additional information, visit MarylandThoroughbred.com.
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