Founded in 1940, the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (National HBPA) and its affiliates operate as a trade association on behalf of Thoroughbred racehorse owners, trainers and backstretch personnel throughout the United States and Canada.
The National HBPA was started in New England by a group of committed horsemen that included Irv Gushen, Doug Davis, John Manfuso, Dr. Alex Harthill, Johnny McDowell, Mort Wolfson, and Jack DeFee.
This time-honored tradition of racetrackers provided for burial services, medical attention, and feeding and housing for the needy families.
[1] The National HBPA oversees the National HBPA Foundation (NHBPAF), a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) fund that was developed as a safety net for horsemen when other forms of assistance are unavailable or have been exhausted after disaster strikes.
In partnership with Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, the National HBPA also operates the Claiming Crown, a major racing event celebrating the “blue-collar” horses of the racing industry.