Who is Sarah Hepler and what is her connection to horses?

Sarah Hepler is the president of Finger Lakes Finest and has a lifelong passion for horses, particularly Thoroughbreds, after overcoming a childhood accident that resulted in the loss of her arm.

What is the role of Finger Lakes Finest?

Finger Lakes Finest is a nonprofit organization that helps retired racehorses find suitable off-track homes and works to strengthen protocols to prevent horses from falling into perilous situations.

How does Sarah Hepler's leadership impact racehorses?

As president, Hepler focuses on strengthening policies, spearheading fundraising, and implementing stricter vetting for buyers to ensure the well-being and successful transition of racehorses to new environments.

Home / Lifestyle / One-Armed Rider's Triumph Over Adversity

One-Armed Rider's Triumph Over Adversity

2 Feb

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Summary

Sarah Hepler overcame a severe childhood accident losing an arm and friend.
She now leads Finger Lakes Finest, aiding retired racehorses.
Hepler advocates for stronger protocols to prevent horses from falling into peril.

One-Armed Rider's Triumph Over Adversity

Sarah Hepler transformed profound personal tragedy into a mission of hope for retired racehorses. At 10 years old, she survived a severe car accident that claimed her friend's life and resulted in the loss of her right arm. This life-altering event, however, was preceded by a promise from her father to buy her a horse if she woke from her coma, a promise that ignited her lifelong passion.

Despite initial challenges in resuming her riding career with one arm, Hepler adapted, excelling in English riding and eventually competing in events like the Retired Racehorse Project's Thoroughbred Makeover. Her experiences fueled a commitment to Thoroughbreds, many of whom she retrained after their racing careers at Finger Lakes Racetrack.

Hepler's dedication led her to Finger Lakes Finest, a nonprofit facilitating successful transitions for racehorses. After seven years of volunteering, she became president in 2025, focusing on enhancing policies and fundraising. Her leadership aims to prevent horses from entering perilous situations by implementing stricter vetting protocols for buyers and working with trainers.