Whether they achieve Triple Crown glory or never lift a hoof upon a track, every racehorse begins life as a foal at a breeding farm.

These farms represent the best of the best in foal care, with proven methodologies for raising the strongest and healthiest athletes possible.

Once foaled, the curious little ones are up and walking within an hour and within a week are ready to begin stretching their legs with their dams (mothers) and other foals in monitored paddocks and pastures.

As these horses grow, their time outdoors increases, as does their socialization with other horses in controlled environments to optimize health and safety during critical developmental months.

These animals are majestic, 1,100-pound athletes, and as with any professional athlete, their success as a racehorse is predicated on ability, training, and care.

The training can be rigorous, but great effort is taken to ensure the mental and physical soundness of each animal.

Once a Thoroughbred begins its racing career, the level of monitoring and care continues to increase, as hope springs eternal that perhaps this will be the colt that not only becomes a champion, but a legend.

Races are monitored, injuries are documented, and protective practices are developed to mitigate the potential risks.

The health and safety of the horse is foremost. New technologies such as positron emission topography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Thoroughbreds often retire from racing at a young age, but their careers are far from over!

These talented animals are prime candidates for work as leisure riding horses, show horses, police horses, polo horses, therapy horses, and loving companions.

Transitioning horses from racing to retirement or to second careers is the mission of several outstanding aftercare organizations in the industry, and for that we are grateful.

Let us never take for granted these wonderful, majestic creatures.