Champions Retreat

Champions Retreat was founded in 2020 by Matthew and Candace Chew. After over four decades in the thoroughbred racing industry, Matt as a trainer, Candace an executive at Santa Anita Park, they chose to dedicate their retirement years to providing a safe haven for retired racehorses. In addition, the aftercare facility provides equine assisted therapeutic interactive sessions to special needs individuals. Primarily kids in the foster system, in 2025 they were able to provide 72 sessions that included foster kids, first responders, veterans and the mentally or physically challenged. 

Champions Retreat is situated on 18 acres in North Idaho, overlooking Hayden Lake. The property includes indoor and outdoor arenas, two multi-acre pastures, two large paddocks with shelters and hay huts, oversized barn stalls, tack room, a cross country course, hay storage, horse trailers, tractors, grain/supplement room and a trailer for kitchen and bathroom use. The facility adjoins many miles of trails through Idaho Fish & Game and National Forest land. 

Though a relatively small aftercare facility, they maintain ten to twelve thoroughbreds year round, providing rehabilitation, retraining and rehoming services, in addition to sanctuary and therapeutic sessions with the horses. With the support they receive from the thoroughbred industry and their community, they hope to continue their mission for many years to come.