What we do

BEYOND the backstretch past, present and future

A brown horse wearing multiple award ribbons on its neck, standing in front of a wooden fence.

Beyond the Backstretch Horse Show: Celebrating the Magnificent Thoroughbreds

Partners with Robyn’s Nest Farm

BEYOND the Backstretch exists to celebrate the Thoroughbred beyond the finish line—showcasing their versatility, athleticism, intelligence, and extraordinary heart while directly supporting the aftercare programs that secure their futures.

Founded from a lifelong love of Thoroughbreds, BEYOND the Backstretch was created to bridge the gap between admiration and action. Our flagship event, the Beyond the Backstretch Horse Show (BTbHS)—proudly partnered with Robyn’s Nest Farm—is a professional, all-breed horse show that welcomes every horse and rider, while intentionally shining a spotlight on Thoroughbreds. Across multiple divisions, our classes showcase the versatility, athleticism, and heart of Thoroughbreds, demonstrating their ability to succeed and thrive in second careers long after their racing days are over.

At the core of our mission is impact. Sponsorships, entries, and participation are transformed into direct financial support for Thoroughbred aftercare organizations. In 2025, we expanded our reach by offering Thoroughbred Incentive Program (TIP) awards, adding USEF Outreach classes, and launching a pilot program that places BEYOND the Backstretch divisions within outside horse shows—creating new revenue streams for aftercare while introducing Thoroughbreds to broader audiences. That growth resulted in a 200% increase in funds donated, benefiting organizations such as Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program and Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue.

BEYOND the Backstretch is small by design but bold in commitment. Each year builds upon the last, expanding awareness, increasing participation, and strengthening the value of Thoroughbreds in the sport horse world. By increasing visibility and demand for the breed, we help create safer, more sustainable futures—where fewer Thoroughbreds are at risk and more are given the chance to excel beyond the backstretch.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: honor the Thoroughbred, elevate their value, and give back—today and for generations to come.

   

BEYOND the backstretch visits Huck Finn Horse Show, Horseheads, New York

A female equestrian rider in riding attire on a chestnut horse, jumping over a hurdle during an outdoor show jumping competition.
A female equestrian jumping over an obstacle on a white horse during a competition.
A woman wearing riding gear, including a helmet, sits on a brown horse with a white marking on its forehead in an outdoor riding arena surrounded by greenery.
A female equestrian wearing a navy jacket, beige riding pants, black helmet, and gloves riding a dark brown horse over a show jump in an outdoor arena.
A woman riding a white horse at an outdoor event, with other people and a dog nearby, and trees and a tent in the background.
Woman in riding attire standing next to a brown horse with a ribbon rosette on its bridle, in a grassy outdoor arena, with prizes and a cap on the ground in front.

BEYOND the backstretch visits Chemung Co Fair Horse Show, Horseheads, New York

A person in formal riding attire and helmet riding a white horse over a jump with sunflower decorations on a sunny day at an outdoor equestrian arena.
A young girl dressed in riding gear, wearing a helmet and gloves, standing beside a white horse with a bridle and saddle, under a blue sky with scattered clouds at an equestrian event.
A woman riding a horse outdoors, wearing a black helmet, black jacket, and light beige riding pants, smiling at the camera. The horse has blue and pink ribbons attached to its bridle, indicating a competition or show. The background features a sunny sky with a few clouds, green trees, and an enclosed riding area.

BEYOND the backstretch visits Brook Edge Farms, Ferndale, New York

Brook Edge Farms not only hosted our division, but also offered a raffle. Huge success!

A man with a prosthetic leg sitting on a black therapy step in a wooden room, interacting with a young girl who is leaning in and engaging with him.

BEYOND the backstretch hosted a Russ Galatzan Memorial Giveaway

In 2023, I lost a deeply cherished student and friend, Dr. Russ Galatzan—a man defined by kindness, patience, and quiet strength. Russ met every challenge in life, in the saddle and beyond, with grace, humor, and determination. His love for his horse, Tru, and his lifelong dedication to caring for others reflected the heart of who he was. I knew honoring Russ required more than a moment—it needed to be something meaningful and lasting, in tribute to a life that touched so many.

All the proceeds were given to Thoroughbred Aftercare Organizations

A white horse wearing a green blanket inside a stable with wood and metal walls.
Person riding a white horse in an indoor riding arena