Retired jockey and advocate for Thoroughbred aftercare, Rosie Napravnik, is set to return to Fairgrounds Racetrack & Slots on Saturday, January 3rd to lead the sixth annual New Professions in Racing Day. Napravnik, a key figure in establishing the New Vocations center in Covington, Louisiana, and a four-time local equestrian champion, will join the Fair Grounds broadcast team to promote awareness, share success stories, offer adoption options, and help raise funds for Thoroughbred aftercare.
Napravnik expressed pride in participating in this unique event, noting that no other racetrack in the country dedicates an entire race day to aftercare efforts. She praised the dedication of the Fair Grounds and New Vocations staff, especially on-air host Joe Kristufek, for their commitment to making the day special.
Recognizing the importance of expanding aftercare in Louisiana, Napravnik reached out to New Vocations—the largest racehorse adoption program in the nation—in 2019. The organization values her involvement and has collaborated with her to support and grow the Covington facility.
Napravnik emphasized the mission to raise awareness and serve the local jockey community in caring for retired racehorses. She highlighted the importance of fundraising and expressed gratitude for the support from all industry members, including jockeys, owners, and fans. New Vocations’ satellite program in Covington has been a major success, and program director Anna Ford will join the event to celebrate its achievements.
New Vocations offers easy ways to contribute, allowing racehorse owners, jockeys, and trainers to donate through the Jockey Bookkeeper, Venmo @newvocations, or directly via their website. Donors can complete the process by clicking a button featuring Rosie’s photo.
Anna Ford credited the strong team supporting the horses and praised the Louisiana HBPA’s vital role in their success. She noted a rising number of owners and breeders utilizing their services and thanked the Fair Grounds for hosting another New Vocations Day, hoping it continues to increase awareness of the facility and its offerings to the racing community.
Napravnik, who retired in 2014 after a decorated 10-year career that included winning the Breeders’ Cup Distaff and twice winning the Kentucky Oaks, is married to trainer Joe Sharp and they have two sons.
Jason Boulet, Fairgrounds Senior Director of Racing, said the venue was eager to support Napravnik’s event from the start and is proud to aid in raising awareness and funds for aftercare, recognizing the debt owed to horses for their contributions on the track.
Alongside co-hosting duties for the “Fair Grounds Today” broadcast and simulcast show, Napravnik will also provide expert betting picks and race analysis for Twinspires, sharing insights on race dynamics and strategy.
Fans can meet Napravnik in person near the grandstand’s far turn, where for a $10 donation to New Vocations, she will sign personalized 8×10 photos, thanks to Hodges Photography.
This article originally appeared in the Horse Care section of the Paulick Report on December 31, 2025.
Fan Take: This news is a heartening reminder of the racing community’s commitment to the welfare of retired Thoroughbreds, showcasing how advocacy and collaboration can make a real difference. For horse racing fans, it signals a growing culture of responsibility and care that ensures these equine athletes enjoy fulfilling lives beyond their racing careers.
