Risk Factor, one of the most beloved and longtime residents at Second Chances at Lowell Correctional Facility passed away earlier this month according to a Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation newsletter, leaving behind a lasting impact on all whom he touched.

A graded stakes-place earner of $173,073 during a career that spanned 17 races from March of 2013 through May of 2016, Florida-bred Risk Factor was trained by Rohan Crichton for Stephen Screnci. By Stormy Atlantic out of the Unbridled’s Song mare Samantha O, he was bred in Florida by Westbury Stables.

“For a full decade, Risk Factor stood at the center of our program, a towering presence both in stature and in spirit,” The TRF Newsletter said in the announcement. “Large enough to be intimidating at first glance, he had a gift for melting fear into trust, and trust into love. He had a way of meeting students exactly where they were, patient and steady, until they found the confidence they didn’t know they carried. During his time in our TRF Second Chances program, he touched, healed and taught more than 20 women.

“Risk Factor embodied everything the TRF Second Chances program stands for, the belief that both horses and people deserve the opportunity to heal, grow, and discover their own strength. His decade of service is a testament to what becomes possible when we create space for second chances: lives are transformed in ways no one could have predicted. The students he guided carry his lessons forward, and in that way, Risk Factor will never truly leave us.”

Students in the program were also offered their admiration and gratitude for Risk Factor.

“Risk was a huge and intimidating sweet loving patient guy,” Kimberly, a student at the program said. “I started off nervous and scared and clueless of how to love him. But he quickly taught me how to love him and also how to love myself more. He is deeply loved in ways only a few may understand, and I will miss him dearly.”

“Risk was my gentle giant who gave me his trust first, then his heart and soul,” student Angenette said. “The bond we had was a once in a lifetime experience. He was true equine therapy. Rest in peace, my sweet boy.”

The TRF Second Chances Program at Lowell Correctional Institute in Ocala, Florida, is an all-women’s initiative that harnesses the healing power of retired racehorses. Through daily care and hands-on learning, participants develop trust, compassion, and a renewed sense of purpose. The program fosters a collaborative environment where women support each other, cultivate leadership skills, and form meaningful connections—often for the first time in their lives.

In addition to the emotional benefits, the program provides rigorous training in horse anatomy, equine management, equine nutrition, injury care, and farm maintenance. Upon completing the program, graduates earn certifications that open doors to careers in equine care, such as farm employees, farriers, and veterinary assistants.

This transformative experience empowers women to rebuild their lives with hope and confidence after release, equipping them with valuable skills and fostering a sense of achievement.

— portions of this story were taken directly from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation website.