About us

Welcome to Gateway Off-Track Thoroughbreds!

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We’re Jodi Ladner and Aletta Martin—the duo behind Gateway OTTBs—and we’re on a mission to give retired racehorses a second career and a loving home.

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Our journey began back in 2012, when we wandered through Fairmount Park and were struck by the sheer number of horses—nearly 1,000—living on the backside. We knew we had to do something. That spark led us to revive and bring CANTER Illinois back to life from dormancy.  CANTER Illinois was one of the original CANTER chapters. It was run by a wonderful group of volunteers from 1999 until the mid 2000s, and then by Jodi and Aletta from 2012 to 2022. CANTER Illinois helped over 1,000 retiring racehorses find their “happily ever after” during its 22-year run. 

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Fast forward to June 2022: with a new name but the same heart, Gateway Off-Track Thoroughbreds was born. Our mission remains simple (and deeply personal): help these incredible athletes transition from the track to new adventures—whether as show horses, trail buddies, or the best pasture pets you could ever imagine.

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A bit about us:

• Jodi grew up in Ottawa, Canada, as a pony clubber competing in the hunters, jumpers, and then Eventing on the Ontario circuit. These days, she’s still happily in the saddle with an OTTB of her own in Saint Louis.

• Aletta is a Virginia native and a serious eventing powerhouse—her résumé includes the likes of Rolex, Burghley, and Boekelo (yes, she really did that). She is running and cycling enthusiast and still loves time in the saddle.

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We’re lifelong horse people, Saint Louis transplants, and completely devoted to these thoroughbreds. If you’re curious, looking for your next equine partner, or just want to chat OTTBs, we’re always here and happy to help.

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Don’t be shy—reach out anytime. We love talking horses!

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