Founded in 1940, the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (National HBPA) and its affiliates operate as a

trade association A trade association, also known as an industry trade group, business association, sector association or industry body, is an organization founded and funded by businesses that operate in a specific Industry (economics), industry. Through collabor ...

on behalf of Thoroughbred

racehorse Horse racing is an equestrian performance activity, typically involving two or more horses ridden by jockeys (or sometimes driven without riders) over a set distance for competition. It is one of the most ancient of all sports, as its bas ...

owners, trainers and backstretch personnel throughout the United States and Canada. The National HBPA was started in New England by a group of committed horsemen that included Irv Gushen, Doug Davis, John Manfuso, Dr. Alex Harthill, Johnny McDowell, Mort Wolfson, and Jack DeFee. Even before the National HBPA was founded, horsemen had 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. Founded with that goal in mind, the National HBPA has expanded its scope well beyond its initial motto of “Horsemen Helping Horsemen” and now represents horsemen’s interests on a myriad of issues, including legislation, medication, aftercare, equine health, safety, education and more. Currently there are nearly 30,000 members of the National HBPA. The National HBPA oversees the National HBPA Foundation (NHBPAF), a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) fund that was developed as a safety net for horsemen when other forms of assistance are unavailable or have been exhausted after disaster strikes. In partnership with

Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) is an American trade organization for Thoroughbred racehorse owners and breeders, which is based in Lexington, Kentucky. Founded in 1961, TOBA's stated mission is to "improve the economics, i ...

, the National HBPA also operates the Claiming Crown, a major racing event celebrating the “blue-collar” horses of the racing industry.

References

External links

National HBPA official web site
Horse racing in the United States Horse racing in Canada {{horseracing-stub