Friday Standing Ovation, Presented by Ovation Riding: Sunshine Horses, Inc.

Each week we honor an individual or organization that is doing good work in the horse world. Today we salute Sunshine Horses, Inc.

Presented by:

This week’s Standing Ovation honoree:

Based in Syracuse, New York, Sunshine Horses is a horse adoption agency and rescue that specializes in off-the-track Standardbreds although it has worked with many other breeds as well. Since it was founded in 2003 by Kate Starr, Sunshine has found “forever homes” for over 150 horses.

From Sunshine Horses’ website:

Sunshine has well over 100 committed volunteers that give love and care to over 35 horses. Many different breeds make up our Sunshine herd such as former Standardbred and Thoroughbred racehorses, Appaloosas, Warmbloods, Quarter Horses and Paints. Many of the retired Standardbreds come to us because they lacked the desire or skill to be successful on the track. Occasionally they have just become too old to race, or have an injury that prohibits further racing. Along with the off the track Standardbreds some of our horses have been surrendered, as their owners could no longer care for them, while others come from true rescue situations.

Once coming to Sunshine, all of the horses are rehabilitated and/or trained for different equestrian disciplines prior to their being adopted. Many of our horses are used to being driven, and adapt well to light carts and carriages. Others readily learn to accept a saddle and rider. We strive to give each horse the basics so that they may excel in any discipline or new career they might find. We work with them daily and try our best to match each one’s unique qualities to the needs of a potential adopter.

We applaud Sunshine Horses for the great work they do and encourage Horse Nation readers to visit the Sunshine Horses website to learn more about its programming as well as ways in which you can help the organization continue serving its community.

Sunshine Horses operates entirely on donations, and it is also 100% volunteer; no one is paid and all proceeds go towards the care of the horses. All donations are tax-deductible and they also welcome donations of equipment, feed, and other supplies — click here for more information. Volunteer opportunities are also available.

Be sure to follow Sunshine Horses on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news and updates. Go like their Facebook page today to help them achieve their goal of reaching 2,500 “likes” by Sunday, August 10, when Sunshine will be hosting a Standardbred Retirement Ceremony at Batavia Downs honoring the life and career of three of their horses. In addition to the winner’s circle presentation, there will be a silent auction featuring items to include a recliner, a flat screen TV and much more. Click here for more information about the event. 

Manny, one of the horses that will be honored in Sunday’s Standardbred Retirement Ceremony.

Go Sunshine Horses, Go Ovation, and Go Riding!

All photos courtesy of Sunshine Horses/Emlyn Clark.

Many thanks thanks to Ovation Riding for their support of both Horse Nation and individuals and organizations that are doing good work in the horse world. If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable. Hat tip to the nominator of this week’s Standing Ovation, Emlyn Clark!