LaCroix is founded on a long tradition of horsemanship in multiple breeds. Prior to focusing their attention on racing, Gene and Erin LaCroix enjoyed successful careers in the show horse industry, earning more than 100 U.S. National Championships and two Lifetime Achievement awards. Gene was named the American Horse Shows Association (now U.S. Equestrian Federation) Horsemen of the Year in 1979.

The LaCroixes’ transition to Thoroughbred racing has been the fulfillment of Gene’s boyhood dream, which began when he accompanied his father, Dr. Eugene E. LaCroix, to the backside of Turf Paradise in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. LaCroix was one of the pioneers of Arabian racing on a pari-mutuel basis, but like his son, his horsemanship was not confined to one specific breed.

In 2003, the LaCroixes initiated a rehabilitation and lay-up program for Thoroughbreds under the management of equine care specialist Del Lowell. In 2007, when Gene became a licensed trainer, a training track was added to the farm, further expanding the services the staff was able to offer.

Both Gene and Erin are active in all aspects of the operation, from administration and business management to equine care, and because they live on the property, they are responsible for the late barn inspections before turning in themselves. In addition to their public facility, the LaCroixes buy yearlings, train them, and then race and/or market them for their own account, so they are experienced not only as hands-on horsemen, but also know first-hand the special concerns of owners.

LaCroix Training Center has earned its reputation as one of Kentucky’s premier rehab and lay-up facilities, and is rapidly becoming known for its services in breaking, legging-up, conditioning/galloping and pre-training. Several Grade 1 winners have come to LaCroix, as well as horses owned or trained by some of America’s leading horsemen.

LaCroix is a special place, not just because of the facility and services, but because the love of the horses and the horsemanship on which it is founded will always be its priority.