A Kentucky, New York and Pennsylvania Thoroughbred owner and breeder, Nelson Clemmens owns AmWest Entertainment LLC headquartered in Prospect, Kentucky. Alongside managing the company and the wagering platform, AmWager, Nelson Clemmens has been involved in different groups, initiatives and organizations, including a prior role as the advisor for the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA).
The HBPA works to improve racing by negotiating racing contracts and providing benevolence for horsemen in need. One of the HBPA’s initiatives is the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA).
Thoroughbreds deserve a safe exit from racing after their service. The TAA, orchestrated by Kentucky HBPA member Jack Wolf in 2012, ensures this through accrediting and funding aftercare organizations involved in racehorse retirement, retraining, and adoption programs. TAA sources these funds from racing and breeding industry stakeholders such as owners, stallion farms, race tracks, sales companies, horsemen groups, veterinarians, and other groups.
To qualify for aftercare grants, TAA first vets the applying aftercare organization. The organization must be a not-for-profit or charity, should have been in operation for a minimum of three years, have a euthanasia policy consistent with the American Humane Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners euthanasia guidelines, amongst others.
After application and checklist review, TAA assigns representatives for a site inspection to determine the organization’s aftercare capability. If accredited, the TAA committee reevaluates the organization to determine the ultimate grant amount based on the total number of grant applicants and the available funding. Since its inception, TAA has granted more than $20.7 million to more than 80 accredited organizations.
