If you’ve had a chance to cheer jockey Joey Steiner to victory at Emerald Downs this season, you might have noticed a familiar logo and name on his white racing pants…SAFEHORSES.ORG.

Joey and his wife, artist Dagmar Galleithner Steiner, have been supporting the SAFE horses for many years in many ways. They are regular visitors to Safe Harbor Stables, bringing their infant son Jonah to say hello to his mom’s favorite horses while Dad talks Thoroughbreds with SAFE staff. The Steiners are always looking for ways to not only give back but to raise awareness about Thoroughbred aftercare and retraining. This is why Joey has proudly worn the SAFE logo in so many of his races, to bring attention to this rescue and our mission to help horses in need.

After 35 years of racing, Joey hung up his silks for good this past weekend, retiring sound and healthy at the age of 52. He and his family are moving back to California where Joey will pursue a career in sports psychology, helping jockeys and other athletes deal with the trials and tribulations of life. (more about Joey’s career and retirement here: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/213509/after-35-years-jockey-joe-steiner-retires)

But before he left, there was the question of the SAFEHORSES racing pants. At first, Joey thought he’d return them to SAFE in a shadow box…but something about that didn’t feel quite right. The pants were meant to be seen by the racing public, to bring attention to the plight of racehorses once they leave the racetrack. So Joey decided instead to pass the torch to a young rider whom he’d supported and mentored during his time at EMD…and who just happens to be the leading rider at the meet right now: Rocco Bowen. Rocco will carry on the tradition that Joey so generously started. Needless to say we are thrilled to have him on our team!

To Joey, Dagmar, and Jonah, we wish you the very best in your new adventure, and we hope that when you visit family up here in the PNW, you’ll have time to stop by and see your friends at SAFE. It’s been an honor working with you!!