Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Charles Town HBPA?
The Charles Town HBPA is a non-profit corporation which works to improve the economic health and public acceptance of the Thoroughbred horse industry in West Virginia and the United States. The HBPA seeks to improve business conditions for Thoroughbred horsemen and their employees, advance the industry in general, promote cooperation among horsemen of all breeds, and represent the interests of Thoroughbred horsemen before state and federal governments, industry organizations, and trade associations.
 
2. Who can become a member of the Charles Town HBPA?
Any person or entity is eligible for membership in the CT HBPA when they start a Thoroughbred race horse in a qualifying race.
 
3. Who can serve on the Charles Town HBPA board?
The CT HBPA is comprised of 5 owner-only directors and 5 owner-trainer directors, as well as a President. A director must be a member in good standing for at least 50% of the racing season during the one year immediately preceding the date of his/her nomination, and remain eligible at all times thereafter. He/she must start one or more horses a minimum of five (5) times while a member in the CT HBPA in the one year immediately preceding the date of his/her nomination.
The President may be an owner, or owner-trainer, and must be a member in good standing for at least 50% of the racing season during the three years immediately preceding the date of his/her nomination, and remain eligible at all times thereafter.
 
4. Does the CT HBPA provide benefits for its members?
Yes. Owner and trainer members may qualify for membership in the Welfare Benefit Trust. All licensed backstretch may qualify for the Horsemen’s Assistance Funds. The CT HBPA also administers a Retirement Program sponsored by the WV Racing Commission. The CT HBPA provides funding for the Race Track Chaplaincy. Visit the Benefits page to find out more about these programs.
 
5. Can the CT HBPA help me rehome my retired racehorse?
The CT HBPA partners with Aftercare Charles Town (ACT) for the placement of retired racehorses. Horsemen may stop by the office and get help completing the ACT placement form, or visit tbaftercare.org
 
6. Does the CT HBPA sponsor any events or organizations for horsemen?
In the spirit of “Horsemen helping horsemen” the CT HBPA sponsors a flu shot clinic, Thanksgiving Dinner and other programs, including arranging visits from the Bonnie Bus for Breast Cancer Screening, and Eye Glass Clinics. We also work with the Charles Town Race Track Chaplaincy to sponsor the annual picnic and the Christmas Party.