I have been passionate about Standardbreds from an early age, growing up around the breed in the racing industry. After spending over five years volunteering and working with retired Standardbreds, I worked with a close friend of mine and founded New Start in 2020 to continue to help these incredible horses transition into second careers and loving homes.  With a deep-rooted love for Standardbreds, I'm committed to ensuring these deserving horses have bright futures beyond the track.

I consider myself a dedicated advocate and lover of this amazing breed, I currently owns three Standardbreds of my own: Houchiegouchiemama, my beloved mare who has been part of my family since she was 6 and is now 19; Western Traveler, a 19-year-old gelding rescued in 2018; and Acefortyfourshadow, an up-and-coming young prospect who may hit the racetrack before eventually becoming a riding horse.

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One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been watching so many incredible horses find their perfect families—whether they come straight off the track or are rescued from difficult situations. The friendships and connections made with owners, trainers, and adopters along the way have been invaluable.

This mission became even more personal when two of my own family's former racehorses ended up in less-than-ideal circumstances, and through New Start, we were able to bring them home. However, probably the story that resonates with me the most—and truly reshaped my perspective in this role—is the rescue of the millionaire stallion, Intrepid Seelster in 2024. Finding himself in a heartbreaking state, he was in desperate need of a safe haven, and his journey to a second chance left it's lasting mark on me.

Every single horse has a story, and seeing them land in loving homes where they are truly cherished is what fuels the passion behind what we do.

My passion for Standardbreds and their potential beyond the track led me to co-found New Start Standardbreds alongside Kimberly. We recognized the need for a dedicated program to rehabilitate, retrain, and rehome these incredible horses, who are too often overlooked as “one-trick ponies” meant only for racing. Giving them the opportunity to thrive in second careers or well-earned retirements has been at the heart of my work ever since.

One of the most rewarding aspects of working with New Start is witnessing the transformation of these horses. Many that arrive from less than ideal histories come in uncertain, undernourished, or wary of human interaction. Seeing them gain confidence, build trust, and grow into their full potential—with bright eyes, healthy coats, and vibrant personalities—is what makes it all worthwhile.

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Beyond my role at New Start, I have traveled to various countries to pursue my passion for horses, learning diverse training techniques and ideologies. These experiences have deepened my understanding of horsemanship and reinforced my commitment to helping Standardbreds succeed in new careers. I believe that every horse, regardless of background, has the potential to learn, grow, and form lasting partnerships with humans when given the right support and guidance.

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At New Start, we are not just rehoming horses—we are changing perspectives on what Standardbreds can do. Their intelligence, versatility, and willingness to please make them incredible partners, whether in riding, driving, therapy work, or simply as beloved companions. I am proud to be part of an organization that is paving the way for a brighter future for these horses and the people who love them.

I discovered New Start Standardbreds in late 2023 through their Facebook page and was immediately drawn to their mission of helping retired racehorses transition into new careers or loving retirement homes. Their dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Standardbreds, including bringing them back to Canada when needed, was truly inspiring. Even though I didn’t own a Standardbred at the time, I knew I wanted to be part of making a difference.

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One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is seeing these horses progress. Whether it’s an off-the-track Standardbred excelling in a new discipline or a rescue finally receiving the care they deserve, every transformation is special. Of course, I may be biased, but my favorite adoption story is Prince Giovanni—a horse who completely stole my heart. Another inspiring rescue was Americam Idol, who arrived in poor condition but, with time and care, became a happy, thriving horse.

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Beyond New Start, I am a full-time criminology student and an aspiring equine first aid instructor. Horses have been part of my life since childhood, from trail riding to working as a ranch hand and competing in western gaming. My family adopted Prince Giovanni, and also owns two off-the-track Thoroughbreds, Coco and Snickers, who we love to take on trail rides and local shows.

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When I’m not with horses, you’ll find me playing music or on the ice for a game of hockey. I’m proud to be part of the New Start team and excited to help more Standardbreds find their second chances.

I have been around Standardbreds my entire life, I don't think I have ever not had a standardbred in my barn. I grew up watching horses’ jog around the track at the Fredericton Raceway, which switched to the Truro Raceway in between classes when I attended University. I found New Start Standardbreds a few years ago and love the passion and drive they have to accomplish their mission. This year, I knew I wanted to get more involved since this breed has had such a tremendous impact on my life.

Working with all horses has always brought me joy, but something is different when working with standardbreds. Knowing that such an athletic, willing, and versatile breed carries so much potential as well as so much stigma drives my passion to advocate for the breed. Every time I work with a standardbred, I feel a great amount of achievement, and every small success in training feels like a great accomplishment.

My parents brought me up around horses and enrolled me into the Canadian Pony Club at the age of 6, where I competed regionally and nationally until I aged out at 21, I was an active member of our local 4H Light Horse Club for four years while in High school and I have ridden and competed in Eventing, Hunter/Jumper, and Dressage. I attended University In Truro at Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus and graduated from Equine Business Management and proceeded to start my own riding school. I am also the Light Horse Leader for my local 4H club, so between 4H and lessons, my barn is always busy!

I don't have a favorite standardbred story, but I love hearing when someone gets their first standardbred and posts their journey. I am always so excited when I see a standardbred trot up the centerline or go double clear in XC, and I hope to see more of this amazing breed on the circuit soon!
 

Coming Soon

I live in St. George, New Brunswick, with my husband, son, and a lively mix of animals, including our dogs, cats, chickens, and beloved horses. My passion for horses has been lifelong, and in 2020, it led me to adopt By Golly Ollie, a Standardbred rescued from a Pennsylvania kill pen. This adoption, facilitated through New Start Standardbreds, introduced me to their incredible mission and inspired me to get involved.

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Initially assisting behind the scenes—helping identify Standardbreds in need and reaching out to past owners—I quickly became immersed in the work. Before long, I joined the board as Director of Maritimes Development in 2024, committed to advocating for the breed and supporting their transition to new careers.

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One of my most memorable rescues was Extreme Measure, a Standardbred saved through a collective effort and rehabilitated in Nova Scotia before finding his forever home. His journey, like so many others, reinforced my love for this breed and their incredible resilience.

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Although my first horse was a Clydesdale cross, and I now have a young Belgian, Standardbreds have stolen my heart. With four currently in my care, I am dedicated to promoting their versatility and ensuring more of these amazing horses find their second chances.

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I’m proud to be part of New Start and excited to continue making a difference in the lives of these deserving horses.

By day, I serve as an Administrative and Accounting Assistant, but my true passion lies with horses, particularly the New Start foster horses under my care. My journey to being part of the core New Start team began when I showcased my adopted gelding at CanAm in 2024, to represent the organization. Shortly thereafter, I joined the board as the Director of Marketing & Development, eager to contribute to the mission of providing aftercare and new opportunities for retired Standardbreds.

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My love for horses began at an early age, thanks to my grandmother, who introduced me to the equestrian world. In 2019, I welcomed my first horse, a Thoroughbred mare named Sophie. The following year, while searching for another horse for friends to ride, I discovered New Start and met my beloved gelding, BunnyBoy. At 25 years old, he continues to thrive, and it was through him that I developed a deep appreciation for New Start’s mission.

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In late 2023, I took my commitment a step further by becoming a foster for New Start, expanding my personal herd from one horse to seven. Fostering has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, allowing me to play a hands-on role in transitioning these horses to their next chapters.

In 2024, I welcomed the well-known Hammish into my care—a decision that felt like fate, as he came from the same owner as my other adopted horse. Hammish, affectionately known as "Hamster," is now thriving alongside Holliday, my favourite success story from New Start’s program.

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Being involved in the rehabilitation and rehoming of these horses has not only strengthened my bond with them but has also led to incredible friendships that I cherish deeply. Witnessing the horses that have passed through my barn flourish in their new homes is an unmatched joy. While it is always difficult to part with them, seeing them bring happiness to their new families makes it all worthwhile.