|
|
| Program pairs inmates with retired racehorses |
| By South Florida Sun-Sentinel |
| Published: 07/02/2001 |
|
In the middle of Florida's horse country, so close to Ocala you can toss a stone, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation has opened its latest complex. Like four others around the country, this prison farm will be used to retire, rehabilitate and, in many cases, save from the slaughterhouse, old and injured racehorses. They will be taken care of by minimum-security inmates who will learn about these horses hands-on in the barn and inside the classroom. 'Everybody wins,' said Linda Miller, co-owner of nearby T-Square Stud and president of the TRF's Florida Division. 'The inmates, the community and, of course, the horses.' Yes, the horses. Like Lucayan Breeze, which former owner Michael Maniscalco claimed for $25,000 and then immediately retired. Or Carterista, a gallant gelding who raced 102 times and is rewarded by being fed and brushed every day. Unfortunately, not all thoroughbreds are this lucky. The industry's dirty little secret is that thousands are slaughtered every year for horse meat. The TRF, a nonprofit organization that began 20 years ago, has saved about 700 thoroughbreds. For every 10 they save, five more are adopted out to safe homes. |
advertise
|
privacy policy
|
add URL
|
about us
|
terms/disclaimer
|
contact us
|
join our team
|
help
Comments:
No comments have been posted for this article.
Login to let us know what you think