About Us
LongRun mission
LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society is a non-profit organization. The purpose of our organization pertains to the welfare of our thoroughbred racehorses when they are no longer able to compete. Our mission is to find them loving, adoptive homes and, perhaps, alternative careers, ensuring them the dignified and happy retirement they so richly deserve. In addition, we aim to educate our owners, trainers, breeders and the general public about the merits of this humane alternative.
What you can expect from an ex-racehorse
The thoroughbred is a beautiful, versatile and athletic breed, which can proudly trace its bloodlines back many centuries. It is our belief that it is a privilege to be a part of their lives and custodians of their welfare. They race for our pleasure – it’s only right we provide them with a happy retirement after their racing days are over.
With time and patience, almost all thoroughbreds can become the most loving and gentlest of companions and, with re-training, most of our graduates have gone on to second careers as riding horses, some with show potential!
See our horses who are waiting for a home.
How does LongRun work?
Through fundraising and volunteer work, as well as assistance from the Ontario thoroughbred industry, LongRun evaluates retired racehorses, provides all needed care they require on our new farm, and works to place them in permanent, loving homes.
Funds raised by LongRun are used to cover expenses, such as: feed, shipping and blacksmith services, basic re-training, medical expenses, as well as for miscellaneous expenses such as blankets and halters.
Why LongRun?
LongRun has been in operation since 1999 and has worked tirelessly to place over over 1,000 thoroughbreds in new adoptive homes. We are the first industry-funded adoption program in Canada, and we work directly with owners and trainers stabled at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, and Fort Erie Racetrack in the Niagara region to offer a responsible retirement option for their horses.
Our local industry has always supported transition efforts, and part of our responsibility is to educate the equine community at large as to the merits of our horses and how successful they can be. We have had great success in seeing not only LongRun graduates participate in these classes, but have encouraged numerous adoptions as a result of our efforts to promote the breed at these world-class shows.
How can I help?
We welcome anyone who is interested in partnering with LongRun to contact our offices.
Volunteering
LongRun welcomes new volunteers to participate at our fundraising events, perform farm inspections, and to follow up with adoptees by visiting them at their new homes as a LongRun guardian!
Click here to apply to become a LongRun volunteer.
Have an extra stall?
If you have an extra stall in your barn, we encourage you to consider adopting a LongRun retiree. We have many beautiful thoroughbreds available in our program, just waiting for that special person to bring them home.
Click here to view our available horses.
LongRun video