Hook & Ladder Performance Horses was founded on the simple belief that every horse deserves more than just survival — they deserve to be loved, understood, and given a new purpose.

     For over 35 years, Nicole Brenz has been part of the horse world, starting with her first horse “Red,” a retired rope horse turned barrel racer. Horses have been her lifelong passion.

      Then in about 2015, Nicole’s heart was forever changed when she acquired her first off-track Thoroughbred, BCS Cat (affectionately known as "Kitty"). Their beauty, grace, and loyalty captured her spirit.

      Moved by the growing number of Thoroughbreds ending up in kill pens and on slaughter trucks, Nicole made it her mission not just to rescue — but to rehab, restart, and rehome. Rather than lining the pockets of kill buyers, she partnered with well-respected and accomplished race horse trainer, Sarah Delaney-Martinez, to create a program that gives each horse the time, rehabilitation, and retraining needed to thrive. Nicole's husband, Nick, has also been an integral part of this endeavor, supporting the effort both physically and emotionally.

      Nicole, while working full-time outside the barn, has poured hundreds of thousands of dollars of her own into these horses — a true labor of love with one goal: to give them a future they deserve.

      If you’re ready to find your next partner — and change a life — we invite you to explore our Available Horses and see the hope and second chances celebrated on our Success Stories page.