About Us

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Cassandra and Truly Gorgeous competing at Hansen Dam

Fresh Start Sport Horses was founded in 2015 and has been a non-profit, 501(c)(3) since 2018.

Fresh Start Sport Horses has been dedicated to retraining and rehoming over 150 thoroughbreds to date. On average we have 15-20 thoroughbreds in our program.

All horses that come into our program are thoroughly evaluated and trained before being offered to ensure they go to suited homes. All our riders are professional upper-level riders.

We work with a variety of breeders/training farms as well as other organizations helping horses transition from the race track to their next career.

Meet the Team

Cassandra and Amicelli competing Intermediaire 1 at El Sueño

Cassandra Andersson, Head Trainer

Cassandra Andersson is a dressage rider with plenty of experience in jumpers, eventing, and hunters as well. Cassandra has successfully competed up the levels in dressage earning her USDF Bronze and Silver medals and is currently working on finishing her Grand Prix scores for her Gold medal.

Varvara, Assistant Trainer

Varvara is a 23-year-old jumper rider from Ukraine. She has been riding for about 10 years and has previously competed at 1.20m, but shifted her focus to the fundamentals of riding. She enjoys working with young horses and helping them find their rhythm. She says:

“I chose Fresh Start because I wanted to be part of a place that really cares about giving thoroughbreds a second chance. The team here is amazing—everyone shares the same passion for these horses and it feels like we’re all in this together. That sense of community is what makes working here so special for me!”