About HBPA
About
In the early years, the sport of horse racing seemed simpler. There was no simulcasting, discussion of appropriate marketing strategies, super testing, or betting via direct computer links. There were no THA, TOC, KTA, TOBA, UTTA, AQHA or other organizations representing horsemen’s interests.
Horsemen have a habit of taking care of their own. If someone was sick or down on his luck, they “passed the hat” taking up collections. This time-honored tradition of racetrackers provided for burial services, medical attention, and feeding and housing for the needy families.
It was during the year 1940 in New England that a group of committed horsemen brought into existence what is now known as the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. The founding group included such names as Irv Gushen, Doug Davis, John Manfuso, Dr. Alex Harthill, Johnny McDowell, Mort Wolfson, and Jack DeFee. From this meager beginning the HBPA has developed into an organization representing the horsemen’s interests on a myriad of issues.
Today there are approximately 29,000 owner and trainer members throughout the United States and Canada focused on a common goal — the betterment of racing on all levels and collectively adopting the following mission statement: – We are committed to the future of horse racing; – We are horsemen who have one horse and a dream; – We are horsemen who spend millions of dollars; – We are horsemen who race throughout the country; – We are horsemen who represent different breeds of race horses; – We are owners, breeders, and trainers. Big and small, young and old; from one end of the country to the other — we horsemen are the HBPA. We are Horsemen Helping Horsemen.
With this purpose in mind, we urge all horsemen to join the HBPA, and urge you to take an active role in the direction and policies of your organization. By doing so, you are affirming your confidence in the goals and future endeavors of the HBPA. You do make a difference.
Mission
Founded in 1940, the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (NHBPA) and its Affiliates operate on behalf of Thoroughbred racehorse owners, trainers and backstretch personnel throughout the United States and Canada.
- Providing a representative voice for all Thoroughbred horsemen on matters integral to the advancement of Thoroughbred racing in the United States and Canada and at the state/province level.
- Encouraging the highest standards of horsemanship to continuously improve the care, health and safety of the horse.
- Facilitating guidelines to ensure the safety of the jockeys, trainers, grooms, exercise riders, hot walkers, farriers, veterinarians and all others who regularly come in contact with racehorses.
- Supporting the development, adoption, implementation and enforcement of nationwide uniform rules that promote safety and integrity in racing.
- Disseminating information on critical issues facing our industry to HBPA Affiliates, members and the general public as appropriate.
- Supporting and promoting programs and entities that provide general benevolence and other beneficial programs for Affiliates and members.
- Assisting in the development of programs at affiliated tracks providing for the aftercare of our horses when their racing careers are over.
- Promoting the sport of Thoroughbred horse racing.
Our Team
P.O. Box 43636
Phoenix, AZ 85080
Cell: (480) 206-1750
Louisville, KY 40214
Office: (502) 363-1077
Cell: (502) 386-7960
Fax: (502) 367-6800
32 Hollaway Boulevard
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Office: (859) 992-3327
Charles Town, WV 25414
Phone: (304) 725-1535
Lincoln, NE 68512
Phone: (402) 499-3398
Lexington, KY 40511
Office: (859) 259-0451
Fax: (859) 259-0452
Email
Lexington, KY 40511
Office: (859) 259-0451
Email
Lexington, KY 40511
Office: (859) 259-0451
Email
Lexington, KY 40502
Office: (859) 266-3700
Fax: (859) 268-9141
Email