What is CANTER?

Mission Statement
The Communication Alliance to Network Thoroughbred Ex-Racehorses (CANTER) provides retiring thoroughbred racehorses with opportunities for new careers after the finish line.

Through its Web site, CANTER provides the means for the public to view what horses are ending their racing careers and are available for purchase or adoption at Thoroughbred racetracks in six states. CANTER volunteers walk the shedrows of the racetracks taking listings and photographs for posting to the Web site. At most of our affiliates, the trainers may donate or sell their horse to CANTER and the organization will find approved non-race homes for their horses.

CANTER is unique in that it was conceived, developed and implemented by the racing industry itself! Jo Anne and her husband had raced their two home-bred Thoroughbreds and successfully transitioned their most recently retired horse to the sport of eventing. During this racing period, Jo Anne served on the Board of Directors of the Michigan Horsemen's Benevolent and Protection Association (which organization represents Michigan's 1200 Thoroughbred racing trainers and owners). She founded the program in 1997 after repeated requests from racing trainers for help in finding non-race buyers for their horses.

The CANTER program continues to receive encouragement, funding, and endorsement from the racing industry and others who have a fondness for the Thoroughbred racehorse.

Although CANTER originated in Michigan, there are now affiliates in Ohio, Illinois, Mid Atlantic, New England, and Pennsylvania. CANTER is also a member in good standing of the Michigan Horse Council.

This is a win-win-win-win answer for the fate that used to befall many retiring racehorses:

  • Trainers win — they have the satisfaction of knowing their magnificent animals will have the opportunity to excel in other careers without the risk of going through auction.

  • Buyers win — no where else can they find such a wide choice of Jockey Club registered Thoroughbreds in one location.

  • The racing industry wins — public respect for showing concern for their horses whether winning or not winning, by promoting an alternative to auction.

And, of course, the horses are the biggest winners of all!

Jo Anne and her husband are no longer actively racing their horses but devote their available time to program operations and expansion. In March 2001, Jo Anne received the prestigious Michigan Horse Council's Catalyst of the Year Award for her significant contribution to the renaissance of the Michigan Horse Industry.

For additional questions about the program that are not answered in the general FAQs may be directed to CANTER, by calling 810-796-9239 or email at cantermichigan@canterusa.org.