Just nine days before the January 12 beginning of the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) Winter Convention in Hollywood Beach, Florida, Calder Race Course General Manager John Marshall informed the Florida HBPA, which is hosting the event, that the racetrack was significantly scaling back its prior sponsorship commitment of $10,000.
As a result, the Convention faces a budgetary shortfall. Any individual or organization that might be able to help bridge that monetary gap with an emergency sponsorship is requested to please contact Wanda at the Florida HBPA (Telephone: (305) 625-4591 or FHBPA@bellsouth.net).
The National HBPA represents over 35,000 Thoroughbred racehorse owners and trainers throughout the United States. The Florida HBPA has over 5,000 members.
To read about the FHBPA mission of helping horsemen, click here.
Hello, I am curious as to why your organization seems to be doing nothing regarding the excessive amount of “used” race horses sent to the slaughterhouse each year? You seem to cater to those owners who at the drop of a hat will send a horse to a slaughterhouse. Please explain why your organization does nothing to combat this problem? Thank you!
Alex . . we are really glad you brought up this issue, because the FHBPA, specifically, has taken dramatic steps in Thoroughbred retirement with the creation of “Florida TRAC” (www.FLTRAC.org). During the past two years, this FHBPA-run charity has adopted over 300 horses–an amazing accomplishment . . . it is supported by Thoroughbred horsemen in Florida, both racetracks and concerned people throughout the country. Right now, we are seeking foster homes for some of our horses and leads on adoptive homes. . . if you can provide this needed resource, we urge you to contact us today. We also ask you to speak up about any horse abuse or mistreatment you may see in non-racing settings, where many times, ignorance on horse care and proper treatment is rampant.