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Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga Receives Continued Support from New York Sire Stakes for Harnessing Horsepower Program

Funding from the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund helps connect underserved youth with retired Standardbred racehorses through education, hands-on experiences, and equine-assisted therapy.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY | November 5, 2026 – Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS) is proud to announce continued funding from the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund in support of Harnessing Horsepower, an educational and therapeutic initiative connecting underserved youth with retired Standardbred racehorses.

In 2025, the program welcomed more than 30 young people, many from low-income families, providing opportunities to experience the unique connection between horses and humans while learning about the importance of Standardbred racing aftercare. With renewed funding, THS aims to build on that success, with a goal of serving 40 youth in 2026.

Designed for youth ages 12–18 from the Greater Capital Region, Harnessing Horsepower brings together education, hands-on learning, career exploration, and elements of equine-assisted psychotherapy. The program creates opportunities for young people who may not otherwise have access to horses, farms, or the many educational and therapeutic experiences they offer.

Through interactive sessions at the THS farm, participants learn about the history of harness racing, the care and training of Standardbred racehorses, and the importance of providing these animals with meaningful second and third careers after racing. Guided activities such as grooming, feeding, and basic horse care encourage responsibility, patience, empathy, and confidence, while equine-assisted psychotherapy demonstrations introduce valuable skills in communication, emotional awareness, and trust-building.

"One of the most meaningful things about this program is watching young people discover something entirely new about themselves through their interactions with our horses," said Dr. Erin Christopher-Sisk, Executive Director and Founder of Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga. "For some, it's their first time setting foot on a farm or standing beside a horse. These experiences open the door to conversations about confidence, responsibility, and possibilities for their futures that they may never have considered before. We're incredibly grateful for the continued support that allows us to make these opportunities accessible."

The program also introduces participants to career opportunities within the equine industry, including veterinary medicine, training, farrier work, equine-assisted psychotherapy, and other professions that contribute to the care and well-being of horses. By connecting participants with industry professionals and introducing them to potential career pathways, Harnessing Horsepower encourages young people to explore new interests and recognize opportunities for their own futures.

For THS, the program represents a natural connection between two important parts of its mission: providing sanctuary and purposeful futures for retired racehorses while creating opportunities for people to experience the therapeutic benefits of working alongside them.

The continued investment from the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund is essential to keeping Harnessing Horsepower accessible to young people and families who may face financial barriers to participation. Beyond introducing participants to the world of Standardbred racing, the program helps foster a greater appreciation for the horses, the people who care for them, and the important role the equine industry plays in communities throughout New York State.

“The Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund is proud to continue supporting Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga and its Harnessing Horsepower program,” said Fletcher Whyland, Executive Director of the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund. “Our commitment to the Standardbred industry extends beyond racing, and programs like this demonstrate the lasting impact these horses can have long after their racing careers. By introducing young people to retired Standardbreds, we are not only supporting responsible aftercare but also creating opportunities for education, personal growth, and future involvement in New York’s equine industry. We commend Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga for its continued dedication to both the horses and the communities they serve.”

As Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga continues to grow its educational and therapeutic programming, partnerships like this help ensure that retired racehorses have the opportunity to continue making a meaningful difference long after their racing careers have ended. Through Harnessing Horsepower, the next chapter for these horses becomes an opportunity to inspire, educate, and connect with the next generation.

Link to Press Release: https://thsaratoga.org/therapeutic-horses-of-saratoga-receives-continued-support-from-new-york-sire-stakes-for-harnessing-horsepower-program/