Even before the National HBPA was founded, Horsemen had a habit of taking care of their own. If someone was sick or down on his luck, they “passed the hat” taking up collections. This time-honored tradition provided for burial services, medical attention, and feeding and housing for needy families, and continues today. Founded with that goal in mind, it was in 1940 in New England, that a group of committed horsemen brought into existence what is now known as the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. From this humble beginning, the HBPA has developed into an organization representing the horsemen’s interests on a myriad of issues. We negotiate with the tracks on a collective basis on issues affecting the common interest of all thoroughbred horsemen and women, including schedule, stakes, programs, safety issues and working conditions. We work to promote effective and appropriate state and federal legislation, rules and regulations, and uniform racing policies beneficial to the common interests of Illinois horsemen.

Today there are approximately 29,000 owner and trainer members throughout the United States and Canada focused on a common goal — the betterment of racing on all levels and collectively adopting the following mission statement:

– We are committed to the future of horse racing; – We are horsemen who have one horse and a dream; – We are horsemen who spend millions of dollars; – We are horsemen who race throughout the country; – We are horsemen who represent different breeds of race horses; – We are owners, breeders, trainers, out-riders, grooms, exercise riders, and a host of others who help train and care for our equine athletes. Big and small, young, and old; from one end of the country to the other — we horsemen are the HBPA. We are horsemen helping horsemen.

The Illinois HBPA lives this value every day, whether it be at the track, or in the interactions with legislators, industry regulators, officials, the public, and our members. Wherever there is a need to ensure the integrity of racing, the health and welfare of racehorses and participants in racing, and the interests of the racing public; there, you will find the Illinois HBPA.

With this purpose in mind, we urge all horsemen to join the HBPA, and urge you to take an active role in the direction and policies of your organization. Any owner or trainer licensed by the Illinois Racing Board is eligible for membership. By joining, you are affirming your confidence in the goals and future endeavors of the HBPA. You do make a difference!