MEET OUR TEAM
Compassionate. Dedicated. Resilient.
Meet the dedicated team behind our adoption program for Standardbreds. Composed entirely of passionate volunteers, our board of directors works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of these incredible animals. With a shared commitment to building an supportive community, they strive to create lasting connections between these incredible horses and their forever homes. Together, this team embodies the spirit of compassion and dedication that drives our mission forward.
President/Co-Founder
Kimberly Hale
I have been passionate about Standardbreds from an early age, growing up around the breed in the racing industry. After spending over five years volunteering and working with retired Standardbreds, I worked with a close friend of mine and founded New Start in 2020 to continue to help these incredible horses transition into second careers and loving homes. With a deep-rooted love for Standardbreds, I’m committed to ensuring these deserving horses have bright futures beyond the track.
I consider myself a dedicated advocate and lover of this amazing breed, I currently owns three Standardbreds of my own: Houchiegouchiemama, my beloved mare who has been part of my family since she was 6 and is now 19; Western Traveler, a 19-year-old gelding rescued in 2018; and Acefortyfourshadow, an up-and-coming young prospect who may hit the racetrack before eventually becoming a riding horse.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been watching so many incredible horses find their perfect families—whether they come straight off the track or are rescued from difficult situations. The friendships and connections made with owners, trainers, and adopters along the way have been invaluable.
This mission became even more personal when two of my own family’s former racehorses ended up in less-than-ideal circumstances, and through New Start, we were able to bring them home. However, probably the story that resonates with me the most—and truly reshaped my perspective in this role—is the rescue of the millionaire stallion, Intrepid Seelster in 2024. Finding himself in a heartbreaking state, he was in desperate need of a safe haven, and his journey to a second chance left it’s lasting mark on me.
Every single horse has a story, and seeing them land in loving homes where they are truly cherished is what fuels the passion behind what we do.
Vice-President/Co-Founder
Jasmine Gray-Scott
My passion for Standardbreds and their potential beyond the track led me to co-found New Start Standardbreds alongside Kimberly. We recognized the need for a dedicated program to rehabilitate, retrain, and rehome these incredible horses, who are too often overlooked as “one-trick ponies” meant only for racing. Giving them the opportunity to thrive in second careers or well-earned retirements has been at the heart of my work ever since.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working with New Start is witnessing the transformation of these horses. Many that arrive from less than ideal histories come in uncertain, undernourished, or wary of human interaction. Seeing them gain confidence, build trust, and grow into their full potential—with bright eyes, healthy coats, and vibrant personalities—is what makes it all worthwhile.
Beyond my role at New Start, I have traveled to various countries to pursue my passion for horses, learning diverse training techniques and ideologies. These experiences have deepened my understanding of horsemanship and reinforced my commitment to helping Standardbreds succeed in new careers. I believe that every horse, regardless of background, has the potential to learn, grow, and form lasting partnerships with humans when given the right support and guidance.
At New Start, we are not just rehoming horses—we are changing perspectives on what Standardbreds can do. Their intelligence, versatility, and willingness to please make them incredible partners, whether in riding, driving, therapy work, or simply as beloved companions. I am proud to be part of an organization that is paving the way for a brighter future for these horses and the people who love them.
Secretary
Leslie Aubin
I grew up on a harness racing farm in Essex County and spent time in my childhood at Windsor Raceway. In my late teens, my family sold the farm and moved to Muskoka. Ten years ago, I rediscovered my love of horses through my son, who has special needs. We found a wonderful barn community where we could enjoy horses together. Since then, I have volunteered there nearly every day, helping with programming and caring for the horses. I was also fortunate to own my first horse on this farm.
When I am not at the farm, I care for my son and advocate for children with rare diseases. I also volunteer with a charity that uses older and retired horses to connect with at-risk youth in our community.
I adopted Nebupanezzar from New Start in August of 2024. His former trainer had a connection to my family, making the adoption even more meaningful. I am proud to be his person and to give him the retirement he deserves, treating him like the millionaire he is.
The farm I am connected to in Muskoka has shown me how much older and retired horses still have to give beyond their former jobs. I have experienced firsthand the gifts they have to offer and the love they enjoy in return. Having seen the lack of aftercare for standardbred harness horses in my youth, I am proud to be part of the solution now with New Start.
Treasurer/Fundraising
Emily Wilson
My journey with horses began because of New Start and my first horse, Missus Big (Myla). Although I had always loved horses, to wasn’t until I was an adult that I truly became Involved with them. It started when I came across Myla’s adoption listing. I couldn’t stop going back to it, and after a few bumps along the way, we finally met. I knew immediately that we were meant to find each other.
Myla and I learned side by side, and I soon became a working student at my barn, which helped accelerate my education with horses. After a little over a year, it became clear that Myla would be more comfortable with occasional rides and companionship. So, I adopted Jetmaster. Together we’ve worked through his quirky personality and I truly can’t imagine life without him. They have both taught me unconditional love in a way I never expected.
Over the years, I’ve loved helping whenever I can. I’ve learned so much about Standardbreds and horse in general. Through that experience I’ve developed a deep appreciation for both their racing careers and quality aftercare. Being able to play even a small role in helping these incredible horses find the future they deserve has been incredibly rewarding.
New Start Standardbreds has brought some of the greatest joys in my life, and I am so excited to continue the journey with such an amazing organization. I look forward to serving as treasurer and helping support not only the incredible breed and industry but the continued growth and success of New Start.
Donor Relations & Community Development
Katherine Patterson
I have been in the horse industry for 20+ years now, playing many roles in that time. I grew up as a lesson kid and showed in the hunter ring with my sister. At 17, my parents adopted a Thoroughbred for me from LongRun Thoroughbreds. Giving animals a second chance has always been a passion of mine, whether it be a house pet or a horse. Over the years I have continued to show with a few different equine partners. More recently I have ventured into the dressage ring and fallen in love. My current riding partner is a young Paint/Clydesdale/Welsh gelding named Victor, whom I have purchased as a two-year-old and have broken and trained myself (along with help from a wonderful coach).
During my time at university and college, I rode for the Trent Equestrian Team, which evolved into becoming a board member and executive member for the Ontario Collegiate Equestrian Association. Over a decade, I served many roles such as horse donor, secretary, zone head and eventually President. I have since stepped back from the OCEA but still steward the occasional show.
On top of all of this, my family and I have fostered Standardbreds for many years now for New Start Standardbreds. It’s something I am passionate about, and finding them a new, forever home makes my heart full.
I have a hard time describing my interests outside of horses since myeline revolves around them. When I am not at my family farm doing some sort of horse activity, I enjoy camping, hiking, being out on the water and being in nature. I also went back to school in 2023 to complete a diploma in Massage Therapy from Fleming College. It’s a work in progress, but the end has never been closer!
As mentioned above, my family and I have been fostering for NSS for some time now. I have a bleeding heart for horses needing a soft landing and a second, or sometimes third, chance at life. When I saw NSS was looking for another volunteer to fill their Donor Relations role, it felt like an obvious fit for me. Helping these horses and then seeing them flourish in their new homes is so rewarding.
NSS’s mission resonates deeply with me. I have always been someone to take in the animal in need, big or small. I grew up in a household that valued animal adoption highly and strived to give them a second chance. I don’t think I can put into words how rewarding it is to see a horse find their forever home and be loved unconditionally, regardless of their background.
Director of Maritimes Development
Christina Wright-Robertson
I live in St. George, New Brunswick, with my husband, son, and a lively mix of animals, including our dogs, cats, chickens, and beloved horses. My passion for horses has been lifelong, and in 2020, it led me to adopt By Golly Ollie, a Standardbred rescued from a Pennsylvania kill pen. This adoption, facilitated through New Start Standardbreds, introduced me to their incredible mission and inspired me to get involved.
Initially assisting behind the scenes—helping identify Standardbreds in need and reaching out to past owners—I quickly became immersed in the work. Before long, I joined the board as Director of Maritimes Development in 2024, committed to advocating for the breed and supporting their transition to new careers.
One of my most memorable rescues was Extreme Measure, a Standardbred saved through a collective effort and rehabilitated in Nova Scotia before finding his forever home. His journey, like so many others, reinforced my love for this breed and their incredible resilience.
Although my first horse was a Clydesdale cross, and I now have a young Belgian, Standardbreds have stolen my heart. With four currently in my care, I am dedicated to promoting their versatility and ensuring more of these amazing horses find their second chances.
I’m proud to be part of New Start and excited to continue making a difference in the lives of these deserving horses.
Development and Marketing
Riley McCavour
I’ve been involved with horses for many years through riding and hands-on care. I’ve spent a lot of time in barn environments doing everyday horse care and working with horses at different stages of training, and horses have always been a really important part of my life.
Outside of horses, I’m a university student with a strong interest in animal welfare, conservation, and community-based programs. I enjoy staying active and working on creative and organizational projects, especially behind-the-scenes work that helps keep things running smoothly and consistently.
I wanted to get involved with New Start because the program really stood out to me for its focus on giving horses meaningful second chances, while also supporting adopters and Standardbred owners along the way. I love that the program emphasizes preparation, education, and long-term success rather than just placement.
The part of New Start’s mission that feels most meaningful to me is the care that goes into thoughtful transitions and responsible matches. Knowing that horses are supported, showcased, and set up for success in their next homes is something I really value, and I’m excited to help support that work through outreach, communication, and community engagement.