Adoption Success Story Interview: Bernie

9/12/25

Lexington, Ky.-When Nikki Thomas first laid eyes on “Bernie”, barn name “Bernheim”, at the Secretariat Center in 2021, she instantly knew that he was the one. “I looked at his eyes,” she recalled, “and I said to myself, this is the horse for me.” Thomas had been searching for a Thoroughbred to adopt and after reaching out to the Secretariat Center, this began what she described as a thorough and welcoming process. “The staff couldn’t be more warm and inviting,” Thoms shared. That initial connection between the Secretariat Center and Bernie marked the beginning of a remarkable partnership between the two. 

I caught up with Bernie and Thomas at the Kentucky Horse Park where they were showing USHJA 2’ 6” Hunter and Hunter Derbies. I could see the results of their hard work on full display as together they earned first, second, and two third place ribbons. “That’s just the partnership we developed,” Thomas stated. She emphasized that adopting a horse isn’t just about finding a match but it's about committing to the work of building trust, finding the right connection, and mutual respect. She said, “You’ll know in your heart you’re drawn to a certain horse, but you must be willing to form that relationship.” 

Their journey together is more than Bernie’s adoption story but also deeply personal. Thomas revealed that her love for Thoroughbreds began when she was just 16, working on a racetrack in Boston while facing family struggles and homelessness. “It’s not just a second chance for Bernie,” she said. “It’s also a second chance for me.” Now, with a family of her own and a granddaughter involved in racing, Thomas felt called back to the world of Thoroughbreds. For Thomas riding and training Bernie has become both a passion and a path toward healing. 

I spoke with her trainer at River Mountain Farm, Elaine Schott, who has been with Thomas and Bernie from the beginning of their partnership. Elaine shared that, “Bernie has a great work ethic and a real appreciation for Nikki,” Schott said. “He goes the extra mile for her.” She credits Thomas for her dedication as both a rider and a student, adding that her success comes from a commitment to proper care and development. “The most rewarding part is seeing the relationship they've built,” Schott shared. “My philosophy is always to put the rider and horse first, and Nikki embodies that.” 

When I asked what advice, she’d give to someone considering adoption, Thomas didn’t hesitate. “Choose the Secretariat Center,” she said. “Everything about them is exemplary. Whatever your goals are, they can be achieved, and it’s so much more rewarding when you get a ribbon in the ring knowing you’ve adopted a horse.” From overcoming personal challengers to creating a show winning bond with Bernie, Nikki Thomas is living proof of what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity and when second chances are embraced.