The Power of Horses: Steeplechase Partners with CATR
The Steeplechase of Charleston, presented by Lexus, is excited to announce a new partnership with Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding (CATR) for the November 15, 2026, event. With a shared love of horses, this partnership is an opportunity to introduce more people to CATR and the difference its programs make in the Lowcountry community.
Changing Lives Through Horses
Since 1991, Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding has helped children and adults with disabilities build confidence, develop new skills, and reach personal goals through therapeutic connections with horses.
With eight certified therapeutic riding instructors, 150 volunteers, and 15 horses, CATR serves more than 160 students each year.
Its programs include individual therapeutic riding, equine-assisted activities for public school students, and therapeutic riding and horsemanship opportunities for veterans. CATR also works with support groups for children experiencing grief, individuals in memory care, and those in addiction recovery.
Whether helping a student gain confidence, a veteran reconnect with others, or someone overcome a personal challenge, CATR shows just how powerful the connection between horses and people can be.
A Partnership with Purpose
“The partnership between Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding (CATR) and The Steeplechase of Charleston is an opportunity to bring our shared passion for horses to a broader community and shine a light on the meaningful impact they can have in people’s lives. CATR is excited to be part of The Steeplechase of Charleston and share the transformative power of the horse-human connection. Horses have a unique ability to reach us in ways words sometimes cannot, reminding us that progress looks different for everyone and that meaningful connections can change how we see ourselves and the world around us. Through partnerships like this, we can raise awareness, strengthen our community, and further CATR’s mission of creating a world where people with disabilities thrive through inspiring partnerships with horses.”
— Grace McShane Ryan, Philanthropy Director, Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding
See the Power of Horses in Action
Want to see what makes CATR so special? Watch these featured films to meet the students, horses, instructors, and volunteers who bring its mission to life.
Each film offers a closer look at the connections being made and the lives being changed through CATR’s programs.
The Steeplechase of Charleston is proud to welcome CATR as a community partner and help share its mission with racing fans across the Lowcountry.
Join the Steeplechase of Charleston, presented by Lexus, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, for a day of horse racing, community, and Lowcountry traditions.