The Minnesota Racing Commission (MRC) authorized disbursement of $46,000 to three 501(c)(3) non-profit racehorse adoption, retirement and repurposing organizations at its August meeting. The recipients include: Bowman Second Chance Thoroughbred Adoptions, This Old Horse and Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program.

These new funds were generated by legislation passed in 2015 to direct fines collected via rulings issued at Canterbury Park and Running Aces to a special revenue fund supporting racehorse adoption, retirement and repurposing.

Bowman Second Chance Thoroughbred Adoption (BSCTA) located in Rhame, N.D. will receive $40,000. BSCTA gives retired racehorses a safe haven for rehabilitation and a second chance at a new adoptive home. They have taken horses from off the track for the past 19 years.

“This money is much appreciated, it will go a long way to help the horses,” said Dr. Richard Bowman the founder of BSCTA. “We currently have over 100 horses, and this money will really boost the program. I am grateful that the Minnesota Racing Commission considered my non-profit.”

This Old Horse located in Hastings, Minn. will receive $5,400. They take older and unwanted horses and act as a “retirement refuge.” The non-profit is a certified rescue that helps aid abused, abandoned and neglected horses. This Old Horse has 110 Minnesota-raced horses in their care.

Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program located in Farmington, N.Y. will receive $1,000. The purpose of this non-profit is to help racehorses whose racing careers were over. Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program can house up to 16 Thoroughbred horses. They have helped over 400 Thoroughbred horses find new homes and careers, including horses that raced in Minnesota.

Applications for funding were reviewed by a Commission Committee consisting of three commissioners, the MRC Chief Veterinarian and MRC Staff. Criteria for funding included documentation of 501(c)(3) status, an established board of directors, and availability of site visits performed by an equine veterinarian. Facilities were required to have adequate shelter and pasture turnout, access to clean water, and safe fencing. Preference was given to organizations that have taken or will take horses who have raced at Minnesota racetracks. The MRC Commissioners approved the final decision at their Aug. 16 meeting.

(with files from MRC)