A Promise That Became A Purpose
Second Chances, One Horse At A Time
River Run Racehorse Retirement began with a horse named River—and a promise that changed everything. I’m Joe Fiorello, and this journey started with a single, unremarkable moment that ended up meaning everything. I had just learned how to train Standardbred racehorses when I found myself facing a difficult decision about River. She hadn’t made the races, and finding her a new home proved to be harder than I expected. But I couldn’t just let her fall through the cracks.
If I couldn’t race her, I had to give her something even more important: a skill set that made her wanted, valued, and safe. So I taught her to ride. And with that, I unknowingly stepped into the lifelong mission that would become River Run.
Then came 38 Special—a horse I co-owned who was claimed, passed around, and eventually landed in a kill shelter. We rescued him, and he’s been safe and happy at Golden Gait for over eight years now. That moment was a turning point. I realized that racehorses like 38 Special give everything they have—and often face the unknown once their racing days are over.
That didn’t sit right with me. Since then, I’ve helped retrain several horses off the track, including Super Manning and Tin Man, who now bring joy to kids and families in their second careers. Word began to spread, and soon, people started asking for help with their horses too. I wanted to say yes every time—but without my own barn, I couldn’t make it happen. With the support of a few key people who believed in this vision, I took a leap and made it official.
Where We Are Today
River Run Racehorse Retirement is now a registered 501(C)3) nonprofit organization devoted to giving retired and unraced racehorses a chance to thrive beyond the finish line.
We give these horses time, attention, and real training so they can transition into a second career or simply enjoy a well-deserved, peaceful retirement. This is not a rescue—it’s a retirement and retraining initiative grounded in respect, planning, and purpose.
Their racing days may be behind them, but their stories are far from over. We’re here to make sure the next chapter is just as meaningful as the first.
Our Partners
Golden Gait Riding Stables
We’re honored to partner with Golden Gait Riding Stable, a top-tier facility that offers our retired horses the care, attention, and fresh start they truly deserve. This work wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of Denise, whose commitment to taking in these horses gives us the opportunity to provide the training, compassion, and environment they need to thrive in retirement. Together, we’re creating a future full of second chances.
Edward Leech
"My name is Edward Leech, and I’ve worked in the harness racing world for many years as both a second trainer and a farrier. I got my start under Tim Ungashick at the Canton, Ohio fairgrounds, and later worked for Hall of Famer Howard Beisinger at the South Florida Trotting Center. Over the years, I’ve traveled with stables from the Meadowlands to Saratoga to Pompano Park, as well as throughout the U.S. and Canada.
For the past nine years, I’ve been the farrier for River, Joe’s personal Standardbred mare now retired at River Run Racehorse Retirement. I’ve seen firsthand the time, care, and attention he puts into her — and I can say without hesitation that she’s in excellent hands. If everyone took care of their horses hooves like Joe does, my job would be a whole lot easier. I’ve also seen that same level of commitment given to the other horses at River Run. Whether they’re just off the track or adjusting to a slower pace, they’re treated with respect, patience, and given the chance to settle into a new life with dignity.
If you’re considering supporting River Run, know that your help makes a real difference in the lives of these horses."
PAUL M. CAPUTO, D. V. M., P.A.
"I first met Joe Fiorello nearly a decade ago when he purchased his first Standardbred racehorse. From the beginning, it was clear that Joe had a genuine passion for horses and an eagerness to learn everything he could about their care, training, and wellbeing.
Over the past nine years, I've had the unique opportunity to witness Joe's evolution-first as a new owner, then learning how to jog and train Standardbred racehorses, eventually earning his trainer's license, and now leading River Run Racehorse Retirement. Throughout all of it, Joe has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the horses in his care.
It's especially meaningful for me to see Joe's journey unfold, as we share a common connection through Hall of Fame trainer Jerry Silverman. Jerry gave me one of my first opportunities as a veterinarian when I was just starting out, entrusting me with his stable of racehorses. Decades later, he became Joe's mentor in the world of harness racing. That kind of mentorship, grounded in tradition, high standards, and care for the horse, is something I see reflected in Joe's approach every day.
As his veterinarian, I've watched Joe grow into a highly knowledgeable and conscientious caretaker. His attention to detail, willingness to learn, and deep respect for these animals have only deepened with time. He's not only transitioned from racing to aftercare and riding horses-he's taken on the responsibility of giving former racehorses a meaningful, safe, and well- managed second chapter.
River Run Racehorse Retirement is an extension of Joe's heart. The care his horses receive is thoughtful, consistent, and rooted in both compassion and competence. I'm proud to have worked with Joe all these years and to support the important mission he's now fulfilling through River Run. "