Search by Region: Territory

Don Carlos R's story is one of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience—and why he now serves as the ambassador for Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare (CTA). He arrived at CTA in March of 2020, carrying not only the scars of a demanding racing career but also the weight of being discarded after giving his all. Despite being small in stature, Don Carlos R has the heart of a champion. He is the only racehorse ever to win a Caribbean stakes race outside of Puerto Rico—a feat that brought great pride and financial reward to the industry. Yet, once his career was over, he was cast aside. When he came into CTA’s care, Don Carlos R was battling significant injuries: a right front suspensory breakdown and tendon damage, along with degenerative joint disease in his left front fetlock caused by multiple surgeries to remove bone chips and joint spurs. Still, his spirit remained unbroken. Today, Don Carlos R is a blessing to all who meet him. His kind temperament, resilience, and presence embody the very mission of CTA: to give retired racehorses the safe landing and dignity they deserve after racing. As our ambassador, he reminds the public and the racing community that horses are not disposable commodities—their worth does not end when their careers do. Don Carlos R represents every horse who has ever been celebrated in victory and forgotten in retirement. His journey is a powerful call for change and a living testament to why aftercare matters. Learn more about Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare, Inc. here .