The greatest victory for a Thoroughbred is not winning a race, but winning the race to live long past their days on the racetrack.
After the Finish LineŽ , www.afterthefinishline.org, is a 501(c)(3) funding non-profit for Thoroughbred horses that can no longer race or breed. I know people want to help these horses yet don't know who to donate to. After the Finish LineŽ provides funding to rescue organizations throughout the United States that care for Thoroughbreds. Your donations can save a horse at auction from going to slaughter, pay for surgery or medical expenses, provide hay and feed, pay boarding expenses, or transport a Thoroughbred to safety.
When I watch the races my wish is for all the horses to come home safe. When I watched the Kentucky Derby I thought my wish came true. To see the beautiful Eight Belles suffer a tragic injury resulting in her death on the racetrack made me sad and angry. I'd like to thank those who made donations to After the Finish LineŽ in memory of Eight Belles.
Racetracks would not exist without the horses. They are the entertainers. Because of them people are employed and others earn income from winning bets. Yet why are the Thoroughbreds forgotten in their time of need? Hopefully, one day, sending horses to slaughter won't be an accepted practice in racing.
Marcus
This month our Emergency Funds were given to a 2 year old Thoroughbred needing hernia surgery. Marcus was sent to a New Jersey auction because his owner didn't think he had the talent to race. Luckily Marcus was rescued by Equine Rescue Resource. Ownership of Marcus was then transferred to Bella Horse Rescue. With the help of Double L Stable Equine Rescue and Sanctuary surgery was arranged for this beautiful horse. He will recuperate with Double L who is donating a month of care for Marcus. Marcus will then be transported to Bella Horse Rescue where he will be cared for and trained for a non-racing career. Distance is not a factor in helping the Thoroughbreds. These rescues are located in New York which is nearly 3,000 miles away from me in California.
After the Finish LineŽ also gave two new horse blankets to Second Chance Ranch. With the rainy weather in Washington State these blankets will be put to good use.
Here's a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you involved in Thoroughbred racehorse rescue. We dedicate our time and our resources to save these magnificent horses from being sent to slaughter.
In April and May we have received some wonderful press in both print and on TV. This includes the San Diego Tribune's article "No finish with this line" and News 8 :: KFMB Stations, San Diego, California story "Retraining Rescued Thoroughbreds. Our national press in Thoroughbred Style magazine includes the article, "Finding a New Way to Help Horses", and an endorsement advertisement.
After the Finish LineŽ provides a voice for the Thoroughbred horses. The funding provided by After the Finish LineŽ will enable rescue organizations to save and care for more Thoroughbreds. Please join our efforts to help horses in need. Your donations can mean the difference between life and death.
Sincerely,
Dawn Mellen, President
After the Finish LineŽ
After the Finish LineŽ, 3525 Del Mar Heights Road, PMB 397, San Diego, CA 92130
For more information please visit www.AftertheFinishLine.org or call (858) 350-1371
