Tap the Gavel, affectionately known as “Tappy,” embarked on a racing career that saw both highs and lows, marked by resilience and dedication from those involved in his journey. The following report provides an overview of his racing career, challenges faced, and the transition to a new phase of life.

Tap the Gavel was acquired for $230,000 at the 2021 OBS April sale, demonstrating potential and promise that would later unfold on the racetrack. Over the course of his racing career, Tap the Gavel participated in a total of nine races, securing one first-place finish, two second-place finishes, and one third-place finish. His journey through the racing world showcased moments of triumph and perseverance. Under the guidance of trainer Bill Mott, Tap the Gavel kicked off his career with a commendable second-place finish on debut at Tampa, testing his mettle on the dirt.

Despite the promising start, the decision was made to transition Tap the Gavel to trainer Kent Sweezey’s care. With Sweezey, Tap the Gavel explored turf racing and secured a second-place finish in a maiden special weight race before breaking through with a maiden victory at Monmouth Park. This period marked a notable chapter in his career, showcasing his adaptability to different surfaces.

Unfortunately, Tap the Gavel faced hurdles in the form of minor issues in the ankles and knees, prompting a hiatus from July 2022 to August 2023. He also underwent a gelding procedure, which we thought would be beneficial for the health of Tap the Gavel going forward. Following a promising comeback at Monmouth, Tap the Gavel was disappointing in his two last starts before being retired. 

After a nice break just relaxing and being a horse, Tap the Gavel was officially accepted by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited Second Call Thoroughbred Adoption in New Jersey. Retiring sound, healthy, and happy, Tappy should have no limitations on his future abilities and second career, with Trainer Kent Sweezy saying, “He’s a rockstar- he’ll make someone a great companion. Point him in the direction and he’ll take you there! Very good boy.”

We’d like to thank Second Call Director Laurie Condurso-Lane for working with our racing team over the course of a month on getting Tappy admitted and placed into her program! Second Call is the official after care program for Monmouth Park Racetrack. It is the goal of Second Call to make sure all of their retired runners are placed in appropriate homes best suited for each horse’s individual needs. A horse entering the program must have been stabled and raced at Monmouth Park Racetrack. 

Tap the Gavel has since been adopted by MyRacehorse owner Anne Marie Catalano and is expected to arrive at her farm at the end of the month. Once receiving some down time for a few months, her plan is to move him to the barn of her trainer, who is experienced with OTTBs. The long-term plan is for Tappy to be Anne Marie’s dressage mount and trail riding buddy! We couldn’t be happier with the landing he received and look forward to him thriving in his second career.