When the horse comes first,
they give back to all of us.

Bonita Farm Thoroughbred Stewardship is an education-driven nonprofit initiative dedicated to connecting the public with the Thoroughbred horse—from their earliest days to their lives beyond racing—to inspire the next generation of stewards and invite a deeper understanding of horsemanship and the natural world around us.

Working alongside our historic family-run Thoroughbred farm, we invite people onto the farm to access the world of the racehorse and to experience their care at all stages of life. Events, education opportunities, tours and partnerships will cultivate greater respect for these horses, offer transparency into their care, and educate and inspire the next generation to become thoughtful stewards of both the animals and the land.

Our Stewardship Story

For generations, Bonita Farm has been a place where Thoroughbreds are not only raised and trained, but truly known—where every horse is cared for with intention, respect and a deep sense of responsibility. Stewardship here has never been a program, it’s a way of life.

But over the years, something became clear. Each time someone stepped onto the farm, whether for a visit, a conversation or a behind-the-scenes look, we saw a shift: people left with a deeper appreciation for the horses, the land and the industry that surrounds them. It was meaningful and lasting. It made us realize that this experience and this way of understanding shouldn’t be limited.

It could and should be something bigger…and from that belief, Bonita Farm Thoroughbred Stewardship was born.

OUR MISSION

  • Educate the public and deepen appreciation for racing and Thoroughbreds

  • Support Thoroughbred welfare through high quality retirement, retraining, and rehoming

  • Preserve Maryland’s racing and agricultural heritage

  • Protect open space and working farmland

  • Build transparency, trust, and access

  • Serve and strengthen our local community

  • Inspire and prepare the next generation of stewards who will carry the legacy forward

Visitors are invited to explore every stage of the journey: meeting broodmares and their growing foals, observing athletes in training, spending time with horses preparing for new careers or enjoying a well-earned retirement in the rolling pastures. Through these experiences, we share the wonder of the Thoroughbred, the dedication behind their care and the lasting responsibility our industry holds to the horses who make it possible.


Everyday, I see the horse do something for me, and my staff and my family... and it’s special. It’s special and I owe the world to the thoroughbred racehorse.
— Kevin Boniface, Trainer at Bonita Farm

The Pillars of Stewardship

True stewardship means caring for horses today while inspiring the people who will protect them tomorrow.

Explore ways to partner with us or participate in our core programs

With decades of Thoroughbred expertise and purpose-built facilities, Bonita Farm provides exceptional care for retired racehorses. For owners seeking a trusted partner in retirement, retraining, or rehoming, our program offers more than simple turnout. Horses remain part of a meaningful program that prioritizes their wellbeing while helping educate and inspire the next generation of horsemen and Thoroughbred advocates.

horse welfare

From school field trips and horsemanship clinics to internships connected to real racing operations, we offer multiple pathways into the industry while welcoming volunteers of all ages to be part of the work.

Through interactive exhibits and storytelling, we celebrate racing’s heritage, prioritize horse welfare, and share the enduring legacy of Bonita Farm.

education

Step behind the scenes at Bonita Farm and experience the world of Thoroughbred racing up close. Enjoy guided tours and see firsthand the daily care, training, and dedication that shape each horse’s journey. Discover short films and interactive displays that bring the stories of the farm and its horses to life. We also invite you to connect with the sport, the horses, and the people who care for them at our special events and seasonal gatherings.

community engagement

WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MAKES POSSIBLE

  • Retirement and sanctuary for Thoroughbreds after their racing careers, including:

    • Daily nutrition, pasture management, and attentive hands-on care

    • Veterinary care, preventative medicine, and wellness monitoring

    • Safe, spacious pastures where horses can live naturally

    • Facilities that allow horses to train, recover, and thrive

  • Tours & events where the public can learn about responsible horse care and the life of a racehorse

  • Educational clinics & internships that inspire a new generation of horse advocates

  • Preservation of open farmland and agricultural heritage in Maryland

Make a Donation

Bonita Farm Thoroughbred Stewardship is able to accept donations that are tax-deductible under Section 501(c)(3).

Join the next chapter

Thoroughbred Stewardship Advisory Board

Eric Long - President EP Henry & Thoroughbred Owner