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The National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) is a trade association founded in 1940 in New England, [1] to promote the sport of thoroughbred horse racing. The National HBPA is supported by regional affiliates in Arizona, Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia.
The National HBPA was started in New England by a group of horsemen comprised of Irv Gushen, Doug Davis, John Manfuso, Dr. Alex Harthill, Johnny McDowell, Mort Wolfson, and Jack DeFee.
Before the establishment of the National HBPA, racetrack communities often organized informal mutual aid efforts, collecting funds to assist members facing illness or financial hardship, which helped provide basic support such as medical care, burial services, and necessities including food and housing for affected families. The National HBPA was founded to formalize and expand such support for horsemen. Over time, its activities have broadened beyond its original focus on mutual assistance to cover several issues such as legislation, medication policy, aftercare, equine health and safety, and education. The organization currently reports a membership of approximately 30,000. [1]
The National HBPA oversees the National HBPA Foundation (NHBPAF), a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) fund that was developed as a safety net for horsemen when other forms of assistance are unavailable or have been exhausted after disaster strikes.
In partnership with Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, the National HBPA also operates the Claiming Crown, a major racing event celebrating the “blue-collar” horses of the racing industry.
