Adoption Success Story: Texas Toast

2024

Lexington, Ky.- “When I first saw Texas Toast at the Secretariat Center, I wasn’t even in the market for a horse. I was seven months pregnant and planning to breed one of my own mares to a Registered Irish Draft Sport Horses to create my next eventing partner. It was actually a Pony Club mom who convinced me to check out the horses at the center while we were there for the USPC Championships.

Texas Toast was the very first horse I saw- and he was exactly what I was hoping for in my next partner. He was massive, with perfect conformation, and such an easy-going boy. Because of his big size, we affectionately call him “Hoss”. I felt completely safe hopping on for a test ride because of his calm and steady nature. From that moment, I knew he was the one. We competed together in eventing, show jumping, and dressage as part of our preparation for the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP). At RRP, I had the privilege of competing in Competitive Trail and Dressage with Texas Toast, showcasing his versatility and heart.

Choosing to adopt him turned out to be one of the most unexpected and rewarding decisions of my life. The Secretariat Center provided incredible support throughout his transition from the racetrack to a new life, helping him- and me- every step of the way. Joining the Retired Racehorse Project has been an amazing journey. It’s inspiring to see Texas Toast flourish beyond his racing career and become a loving, capable partner.

I’m grateful to be part of a community that honors and supports retired racehorses, giving them the second chance they deserve. Thank you, Secretariat Center, for making this journey possible and for your dedication to these incredible horses.”

-Madisyn Hoggard

2024 Adopter