Irad Ortiz Jr. Launches “Horse Haven,” a $4.5 Million Sanctuary for Retired Racehorses
Saratoga Springs, NY — Champion jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., known for his lightning-fast finishes on the track, is bringing the same level of dedication off the track with his latest venture: “Horse Haven.” The ambitious 20-acre facility, currently under construction just outside Saratoga Springs, is set to become a sanctuary and rehabilitation center for retired racehorses, especially those who have faced abuse or injury during their racing careers.
With a personal investment of $4.5 million, Ortiz Jr. is sparing no expense to ensure the well-being of these athletes. The center is designed to provide comprehensive care, including a therapeutic pool for low-impact exercise, a calming lawn area for relaxation, specialized joint rehabilitation programs, and around-the-clock veterinary care.
But beyond the state-of-the-art amenities, Ortiz Jr.’s vision is rooted in compassion. “We want to give these horses the care and love they deserve after dedicating their lives to the sport,” he says.
Horse Haven is more than just a shelter; it’s a mission-driven initiative aimed at setting a national standard for equine care. Ortiz Jr. hopes the project will inspire other athletes and sports figures to leverage their influence and resources for animal welfare.
“If we can lead by example, we can encourage others in the racing industry—and beyond—to make a difference,” he adds.
The facility promises a holistic approach to rehabilitation, blending medical care with emotional support. Many retired racehorses suffer from chronic injuries or trauma after years on the track, and Horse Haven is designed to address both physical and psychological recovery.
The therapeutic pool allows for low-impact exercise that strengthens muscles without straining joints, while the open green spaces promote mental well-being, giving horses a safe and serene environment to heal.
Ortiz Jr.’s initiative comes at a time when awareness about the treatment of retired racehorses is gaining momentum. Studies show that many horses are neglected or sent to slaughterhouses once their racing careers end, highlighting a critical need for facilities like Horse Haven.
By investing personally and publicly in this project, Ortiz Jr. is not only providing a lifeline for these animals but also raising awareness about responsible care practices within the racing community.
In addition to its rehabilitation services, Horse Haven aims to serve as an educational hub. The center plans to host workshops, tours, and programs that teach young riders, trainers, and racing fans about proper horse care, injury prevention, and the importance of ethical treatment.
“Education is a big part of our mission,” Ortiz Jr. explains. “If people understand the needs and struggles of these horses, they’re more likely to advocate for them.”
The project has already drawn attention from both the equestrian world and animal welfare advocates. Experts have praised Ortiz Jr.’s hands-on approach and his commitment to creating a facility that balances medical precision with comfort and dignity for the horses.
“It’s rare to see someone from the racing industry invest so deeply in aftercare,” says Dr. Melissa Hampton, an equine veterinarian. “Horse Haven could become a model for others across the country.”
Ortiz Jr.’s dedication stems not only from his love of horses but also from his personal experiences on the track. Having witnessed firsthand the physical demands and risks racehorses endure, he felt compelled to act. “These horses give everything for the sport we love,” he reflects.
“When their racing days are over, they deserve a future filled with care, respect, and comfort.”
As construction continues, Ortiz Jr. is optimistic about Horse Haven’s impact. He envisions a network of similar facilities emerging nationwide, each providing retired horses with the medical attention, rehabilitation, and safe environment they need.
Through this project, he hopes to shift the culture within the racing industry, proving that it’s possible to celebrate athletic achievements while ensuring the welfare of the animals behind those victories.
Horse Haven is expected to open its gates in the coming months, welcoming its first residents and marking a new chapter for retired racehorses in the U.S.
The initiative underscores a growing trend of athletes using their platform to advocate for causes close to their hearts, turning personal success into meaningful change.
With its blend of advanced veterinary care, therapeutic programs, and a focus on rehabilitation and education, Horse Haven is set to redefine what it means to care for retired racehorses.
For Irad Ortiz Jr., it’s more than a project—it’s a lifelong mission to honor the dedication and spirit of the horses that have given so much to the sport he loves.
Beyond its immediate mission, Horse Haven also aims to foster a community of supporters and volunteers who are passionate about equine welfare. Ortiz Jr.
envisions partnerships with local schools, equestrian clubs, and animal welfare organizations to create programs that encourage hands-on involvement, from grooming and feeding to assisting with rehabilitation exercises.
By cultivating this sense of community, Horse Haven hopes not only to transform the lives of retired racehorses but also to inspire a broader movement of compassion and responsibility toward animals across the nation.