Dual celebration for MMXX Standardbreds
Vernon Downs, NY — MMXX Standardbreds is thrilled to announce a : the 200th adoption and the one-year anniversary of its innovative standardbred adoption program. Launched in November 2023, the program has quickly grown by connecting harness racing owners and trainers directly with adopters, providing a scalable, sustainable approach to racehorse aftercare.
This milestone is highlighted by the adoption of Gunpowder N, whose new owners enjoyed a unique, immersive adoption experience that underscores MMXX Standardbreds' dedication to meaningful aftercare.
Gunpowder N, an international competitor and beloved "warhorse," achieved 37 race wins and earned over $350,000 in a distinguished 10-year career across New Zealand and the United States.
His owners, David Adsit, Jeff Agan, and trainer Bobby Gale, made the compassionate choice to retire him from racing at the peak of his health, especially with the kind-hearted persuasion of groom Leigh Mather who quarterbacked the partnership with MMXX. Gunpowder N's adopters, who traveled from Maryland, were invited to Vernon Downs to tour the backstretch, enjoy a race night and take part in the official winner's circle retirement ceremony for Gunpowder N, sharing the moment alongside his racing connections.
This extraordinary adoption experience is a defining feature of MMXX Standardbreds' model. By facilitating direct adoptions, MMXX Standardbreds offers adopters the chance to connect with their horses' history and form a lasting bond from day one.
This approach, which differs from traditional programs, enables scalability and allows MMXX Standardbreds to support more standardbreds in finding new roles as riding or show horses, creating a lasting impact on both horses and their adopters.
"We're celebrating more than just a number today; we're celebrating the lives and legacies of 200 standardbreds who have found new homes in just one year," said Molly D'Agostino, Director of MMXX Standardbreds. "This milestone demonstrates the racing industry's commitment to providing dignified retirements in second careers for these horses, and we're grateful to every owner, trainer, and groom who has made this possible."
MMXX Standardbreds extends heartfelt thanks to the connections of all 200 horses now thriving in second careers through the program, whose decisions for sensible retirements from racing, reflect an industry-wide commitment to aftercare. As MMXX Standardbreds marks its one-year anniversary, the organization looks forward to continuing to create purpose-filled futures for standardbreds, fostering a culture of care and respect within the racing community.
