Jerry, formerly known as My Pal Jerry, has a new home and is working on a second career. In October 2018 our stable decided it was time for his racing career to end, and he was retired via Beyond the Wire. They placed him with Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue, where he began his transition to off track life. This January, Jerry was moved to his new home, South Carolina. In the care of Heather Armstrong, he has made progress in his new career as a dressage horse. Jerry walks, trots, and canters. He also gets both leads "super easy," according to…

As we shared earlier this year, Dill lacerated his fetlock pretty nicely when he was turned out in January. It’s been a crazy uphill battle with the healing process. When his trainer, Samyi, thought it was healed and Dill was ready to work, it bust open again. Then they really thought the start of August was it. But unfortunately again they started their training adventure, and it re-busted. After conversations with his vet, he was placed on 12 hours stall and 12 hours small paddock turnout with no riding for 4–5 weeks. This has left Dill and Samyi with hardly…

At Wasabi Ventures Stables as much as we are excited about seeing the winner’s circle, we also are focused on ensuring that each of our horses has a safe and happy retirement. In that vein, Michele Pesula Kuegler has taken on the role of Director of Aftercare. Michele is a lifelong animal advocate, who now focuses on Thoroughbreds. In the role of Director of Aftercare, Michele has acquainted herself with numerous Thoroughbred retirement programs and has published several interviews with these groups. In the coming months more interviews will be published. Additionally, the social communication team has focused on highlighting…

Where is Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue based? It is based in Pawling, New York. How did your rescue group begin? Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue was founded by owner, trainer, and breeder, John Hettinger. When he sold race horses, there was an agreement attached to the bill of sale that if the horse was no longer wanted, Hettinger would take the horse back and either provide sanctuary or an opportunity for a second career. He fought tirelessly to eliminate slaughterhouses in America. Upon his death in 2008, he donated 300 acres to become Akindale Thoroughbred Rescue. What makes your program unique? We have…

Kind Of A Big Dill is continuing to thrive as he steadily makes his way through training after his stall rest. He has started riding at the walk! Additionally, as long as there is no rain, he has been moved to a bigger pasture for 12 hours of turn out a day. He has also moved onto a pattern. He will either be doing comprise trails or ranch work in the makeover alongside our barrels! He is moving incredibly well without any bandages as he is healed nearly 100%. He may be a bit behind with only 71 days of…

Where is New Start based? It is based at Penn National and is a program of the Pennsylvania Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association (PAHBPA). How long has your group been active? In 2013 the PAHBPA decided to create an in-house program. The program is staffed by only Lauren. There is a board through PAHBPA that she works with. Doctor Renee Nodine donates almost all of her time and energy when she works with the program. What makes your program unique? Lauren won’t say no to a horse that a trainer puts in the program. New Start will take all eligible…