Spring 2021 Update
Dear Friends,
Farm Manager Crystal Wever and friend
Spring seems definitely, if faintly, to be in the air at last. It has been a long and difficult winter throughout the world, and I know that most of you are glad to see it fade away. Thanks to the diligent attention of our farm manger, Crystal Wever, our herd of 39 horses has come through the bad weather in excellent condition. All are beginning to shed their winter coats, and even the older ones have been kicking up their hooves as the weather warms up… quite a change from their droopy winter demeanor!
We were granted our 501(c)(3) status in 2020, and in January of 2021, became eligible to apply for accreditation with the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA), an umbrella group sponsored by The Jockey Club. This certification is essential as it sets the nationally recognized standard for the aftercare of racehorses in the U.S. We have met all TAA qualifications and hope to hear back from their board over the coming summer. The TAA stamp of approval will also make us eligible to apply for TAA grants and give our donors assurance that we have met the highest standards of the aftercare industry.
A new season always brings new needs and this one is no exception.
During the winter it became apparent that we need an additional run-in shed in our biggest field, and fences need repair. Our older vehicles are also feeling their age and in need of new parts and maintenance. Although we were fortunate to have good pasture well into the fall, it is obvious that some of our fields are also in need of fertilizing.
Crystal and our weekend farm manager, Cindy, have just completed spring vaccinations and de-worming. And, as seems to be the current norm, prices on both these items have increased markedly since our last purchase. To those of you who own horses, none of the above will be surprising.
During the past year, we have gratefully received small grants from various Thoroughbred industry organizations in Virginia; and, while these have been most helpful, we are still in need of financial support from all of you. Any contribution you are able to make is always appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your generosity in supporting these deserving animals.
Susan J. Hart,
President of the Board