Illinois Horsemen Launched Retired Racer Program
The Galloping Out program retrains former thoroughbreds for new careers following their racing tenures.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Large Animals
Live Poll
Should racehorse owners be responsible for the lifetime care of retired animals in your area?
Created in 2010 by the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, the Galloping Out program provides care and retraining for retired racehorses. The initiative aims to help these animals transition into new careers after the conclusion of their time on the track.
Why it matters
Retraining programs provide a vital path for retired thoroughbreds to find new homes and careers. These efforts are essential for rescue operations seeking to prevent former racehorses from being sold for slaughter.
Galloping Out currently manages 28 horses across multiple Illinois locations, with adoption fees ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Adopters are required to pass vetting and facility inspections, and the organization maintains an unconditional return policy.
The players
Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association
This organization represents horsemen in Illinois and founded the Galloping Out initiative to support retired thoroughbreds.
Illinois Equine Humane Center
Located in Maple Park, this facility is dedicated to rescuing and providing care for horses in need.
Avery Kucan
A participant in the rescue program who intends to transition her horse into show jumping competition.
The details
Retraining involves teaching former racehorses how to slow down and respond to precise commands while acclimating them to loud noises and trailer transport. These horses are moved to farm locations in areas including Kankakee, Monee, Manteno, and Harvard to prepare for life after racing.
Timeline
2007: Illinois implemented a ban on the slaughter of horses.
2010: The Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association created Galloping Out.
October 2026: Reported period for current program operations and Hawthorne Race Course impacts.
Next year: Avery Kucan plans to begin show jumping.
Roadmap
The Galloping Out program serves as a model for animal welfare in the racing industry by establishing a sustainable post-career path for thoroughbreds. This initiative reflects a broader shift toward greater corporate and industry responsibility in the life-cycle management of performance animals.
Prospective horse owners can support the program by adopting retrained horses, though they must complete a vetting process and site inspection. Adopters also benefit from the program's unconditional return policy, which ensures long-term support for the animal.
The takeaway
Adopting a former racehorse requires patience, as these animals must be specifically retrained to adapt from the high-speed demands of the track to civilian life. Prospective owners should prioritize facilities that emphasize long-term commitment and unconditional return policies.
Further reading
Learn more about the care and management of animals in our Large Animals section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reading Eagle.
Live Poll
Should racehorse owners be responsible for the lifetime care of retired animals in your area?
