Jan Pettinger, who serves as the farm and adoption manager for the Arkansas Thoroughbred Retirement and Rehabilitation Foundation (ATRRF), received the 2026 Dr. J. David “Doc” Richardson Community Award. This prestigious national accolade honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Thoroughbred racing industry and its communities.
On October 20 in Lexington, Kentucky, Pettinger was presented with the award at the 11th annual Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards hosted by Godolphin. The event celebrated winners across seven categories, distributing a total of $122,000 in prize money. Pettinger’s award, sponsored by Churchill Downs, was chosen from finalists that included Miguel Paz of the Virginia HBPA and Susan Powers from the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center.
Reflecting on the honor, Pettinger said, “Being recognized alongside so many dedicated people in the Thoroughbred industry was a wonderful experience. Traveling to Lexington and receiving this award means a great deal to me, but what matters most is the work we do every day to give these horses a chance at a new life after racing.”
Pettinger oversees ATRRF’s farm near Hot Springs, where retired racehorses are fostered and rehabilitated, allowing them to rest and heal before moving on to new homes. Her responsibilities include managing daily care, organizing veterinary and farrier services, and handling adoption applications and interviews with potential new families.
The ATRRF offers aftercare, rehabilitation, retraining, and adoption services to Thoroughbreds that have competed or trained at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs. The foundation was established with initial funding from the Arkansas Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA), led by longtime president Bill Walmsley. Many horses under Pettinger’s care are sourced directly from the Oaklawn backstretch, where members of the Arkansas HBPA train and race Thoroughbreds.
Jeanette Milligan, executive director of the Arkansas HBPA and ATRRF, commented, “Jan’s dedication to these horses and their well-being is remarkable, and it was a privilege to be in Lexington to see her receive this award. Her work reflects the commitment of our racing community to ensuring Thoroughbreds are cared for long after their racing careers end. We’re proud to see her recognized on a national stage.”
For more details about the Arkansas HBPA, visit arkansashbpa.com.
This story was originally published on November 5, 2026, by Paulick Report in the Horse Care section.
Fan Take: This recognition of Jan Pettinger highlights the vital role of aftercare in the Thoroughbred industry, reminding fans that supporting retired racehorses is essential for the sport’s integrity. Celebrating such dedication ensures the well-being of these athletes beyond the track, ultimately sustaining a positive reputation for horse racing.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
