a safe haven for retired Thoroughbred race horses and equine/human interaction in North Idaho
Parker, Reba & Hayden express opinions of their new fly masks.
Luke (top left) has an admirer come for a visit, and Freckles (mid left) is getting a spa day from one of our volunteers. Welcome Exit Row, the newest addition to the Champions herd. The horses truly love the attention they get from their visitors and we love the smiles!
Champions Retreat is the culmination of our efforts to procure a facility for retired race horses and to share equine therapeutic benefits with those in our community that may be in need. We are dedicated to helping retired racehorses find their next career, or a safe, happy retirement by promoting the virtues of the breed to our local area.
We are home to six resident Thoroughbreds, retired from racing on West Coast tracks. Our 18-acre ranch overlooks beautiful Hayden Lake in the panhandle of North Idaho. Surrounded by towering conifers and flanked by two creeks, this secluded, peaceful setting provides the perfect environment to connect with horses and nature. Through experiences, we have seen that mental or physical challenges can respond favorably to equine interaction.
Champion’s Retreat includes indoor and outdoor arenas, oversized stalls, three separate pastures with shelter plus miles of groomed riding trails on site and in the adjoining national forest land.
Our team of OTTBs range in age from six to 23, and are generous, big hearted animals that are happy to share their unique personalities with visitors. Just feeding a carrot to a kind, gentle horse can be a transforming event. Please call us if you would like to schedule a visit.
Matthew & Candace Chew