ST. PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Racing Commission has released the application for the 2018 request for funding for organizations that assist in the rehoming of race horses that have raced at Canterbury Park and Running Aces Harness Park.

The program was established by legislation in 2016 with the first grants conferred in 2017. Last year’s recipients were Bowman’s Second Chance Thoroughbred Adoptions, This Old Horse and Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program.  A total of $46,400 was given out in 2017.

In 2018, up to $40,000 will be distributed to organizations that care for and repurpose Standardbreds, Quarter Horses and/or Thoroughbred racehorses.  The application for racehorse aftercare funds (click link below) includes a questionnaire, limited financial reporting information, and documentation of 501(c) (3) status. 

The pool of available money is  funded by the MRC allocating all racing-related fine monies to a special revenue fund dedicated exclusively to the aftercare of retired racehorse. These funds are additive to the funds generated by the Minnesota racetracks and the horsepersons’ organizations.

Organizations must submit applications by August 15, 2018 to be considered for funding.  Preference will be given to organizations that retire and rehome horses from Minnesota racetracks.  Additionally, no first year start-up organizations will be considered.

“The Minnesota Racing Commission is eager to help provide racehorse aftercare funds to organizations that will help retired racehorses find a safe and productive post-racing career. The Commission’s efforts, in combination with the already instituted programs of Canterbury Park, Running Aces and their horsepersons’ organizations, will further our goal to provide resources to care for these gifted animals,” said Tom DiPasquale, Executive Director of the Minnesota Racing Commission.

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