New Vocations’ Open Barn & BBQ Raises Over $46,000 to Support Aftercare

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Photos by L'Arte Photography

May 1, 2024 – Lexington, Ky. – New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program celebrated a very successful 7th Annual Open Barn & BBQ, presented by Seidman Stables, LLC, with 450 guests visiting the program’s Lexington, KY, facility at Mereworth Farm last Thursday.

The Open Barn & BBQ—held concurrently with the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, featured educational seminars, including "Introductory Jumping for OTTBs" by international five-star eventer, Allie Knowles, along with the chance to meet adoptable horses while touring the facility.

"Seidman Stables is proud to support New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program and the Open Barn & BBQ. This event is the perfect venue to showcase New Vocations' adoptable horses and show off their athleticism and versatility. Seidman Stables is a strong advocate of racehorse aftercare, and happy to support New Vocations in their efforts," said Maggie Seidman.

450 guests came from near and far to enjoy live music, food trucks, a silent auction and an interactive educational program featuring live demos sponsored by Ascend Advisory on the following topics:

"How Thoroughbreds are Ridden at the Track: A Unique Perspective from a Rider, Owner, and Practitioner" by former exercise rider and the owner of CORE Therapies, Larkspur Carroll, DVM
"Essential OTTB Flatwork" - by Dressage and Eventing trainer and competitor, Alison O'Dwyer
"Introductory Jumping for OTTBs" by international five-star eventer, Allie Knowles

Jen Roytz, manager of Brownstead Farm, past executive director of the Retired Racehorse Project, and an OTTB owner and rider emceed the sessions.

The event raised over $46,000 and will benefit New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

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About New Vocations: Founded in 1992, New Vocations has grown into the largest racehorse adoption charity in the country. Its mission to rehabilitate, retrain and rehome retired racehorses has led to the placement of over 9,000 retiring Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds in experienced, loving homes over the past 30 years. With nine facilities in six states, New Vocations works directly with racing owners and trainers seeking aftercare options to serve more than 600 retiring racehorses each year. Learn more at newvocations.org.