Run for the Ribbons Inc. is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of OTTB’s (off-track Thoroughbreds) after their racing careers. It was founded in 2014 as a Thoroughbred only show series. In 2015, we expanded our show series to a Thoroughbred retraining /retirement facility and networking program.  As of 2017, we have been providing Marion County with the Florida Thoroughbred Transformation Expo at the Florida Horse Park, which is a multi-disciplined event allowing Thoroughbreds to showcase their many diverse talents, offering a large amount of prize money to winners of their divisions. Our retirement facility and Hunter/Jumper show grounds are located at Cedar Lock Farm in Morriston, where our focus is rehabilitation and retraining of Thoroughbreds to ensure successful transitions into their new careers. We have had much success rehoming these beautiful animals and regularly seek new retraining prospects. We will also soon be launching our youth equine assisted program, Full Strides with Thoroughbreds.

MISSION STATEMENT

We provide off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTB) with the foundation needed to ensure a smooth transition into their next career and home. We rescue, rehab, retrain and re-home these horses. We specialize in re-schooling from track to multiple disciplines. We also provide events that create a demand for OTTBs in Florida, as well as educate the community on Thoroughbred aftercare efforts and their importance within the racing industry.
Through our youth mentoring program, Full Strides with Thoroughbreds, we provide under-privileged youth within our community with the opportunity to learn about, care for, ride and compete in events, and bond with the off-track Thoroughbreds in our program. The skills they will acquire will prepare them for employment opportunities within the equine industry. It will also help them develop a strong work ethic, build self-esteem, trust, learn responsibility and show them the importance of teamwork at no cost to them. We hope to improve the lives of the youth both emotionally and physically through the experiences they will have while improving the lives of the off-track Thoroughbreds.