Back in 1998 the California Thoroughbred Trainers board set out to develop a non-profit organization to enhance the lives of the hard-working backstretch workers and their families. These folks put in long hours taking care of the horses we love and the CTT and others felt it was time to take care of them.

The organization has since been named the Gregson Foundation, after the late veteran trainer Eddie Gregson, who spearheaded the effort 28 years ago. Today they provide scholarships for the children of backstretch workers.

“Thursday a subset of the board met,” says board member Tom Reynolds, “and we’re granting nearly $400,000 in scholarships to the backstretch workers’ kids for the upcoming school year.”

Last year the foundation provided a total of $191,500 to five new scholarship recipients in addition to 14 past recipients. The year before the amount provided totaled $168,000. 

The foundation also provides career counseling for backstretch workers and their families. 

“We also do special events,” Reynolds adds. “Things like In-and-Out trucks for the backstretch families and we do Christmas parties, but by and large the biggest thing we do is provide the scholarships.”

If you’d like to help out with this worthy cause just go to their website at Gregsonfoundation.com and click the donate button.

Gregson Foundation The Edwin J. Gregson Foundation is dedicated to uplifting the hardworking families connected to California’s thoroughbred horse racing community. The foundation began with a commitment to providing essential support, including scholarships and career guidance for the backstretch workers and their loved ones. Over the years, it has evolved into a vital resource that empowers individuals to chase their educational and professional dreams, ensuring a brighter future for all.