Joe Tartaglia, a 49-year-old Stage 4 cancer patient, is set to participate in the prestigious National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s National Horseplayers Championship this weekend in Las Vegas. Despite his challenging diagnosis, Tartaglia remains determined to live life to the fullest. His journey into horse racing began when he was just five years old, and he later founded Little Blue Bird Stables in 2019, aiming to make horse ownership accessible to middle-class enthusiasts. With two young sons and a supportive family, Tartaglia is focused on making every moment count while pursuing his passion for racing.

Tartaglia's love for horse racing runs deep, having been introduced to it as a child. In 2019, he established Little Blue Bird Stables with the goal of bringing horse ownership within reach of everyday fans. The operation has since flourished, expanding from a single yearling to a stable of 15 horses. This growth reflects Tartaglia's commitment to inclusivity in the sport. However, his life took an unexpected turn in 2023 when he received a colorectal cancer diagnosis. Initially hopeful that surgery would cure him, Tartaglia learned during the procedure that the cancer had spread, transforming his outlook on life.

Facing an uncertain future, Tartaglia has chosen to focus on what matters most: his family and his passion for racing. He plans to compete in the National Horseplayers Championship, where he could win up to $800,000 and be honored as the 2025 Horseplayer of the Year. His father will join him for this significant event. Tartaglia also prioritizes spending time with his sons, Andrew and Luke, attending their Little League games and planning a vacation to Saratoga Springs. Nicolai Lazar, a close friend and director of growth at Little Blue Bird Stables, credits Tartaglia's resilience to his dedication to family and the stables.

Lazar met Tartaglia through social media and was immediately impressed by his genuine passion for the sport. Under Tartaglia's leadership, Little Blue Bird Stables has become a welcoming community for mid-tier horse owners. The organization now boasts 180 partners and owns several broodmares, with Tartaglia eagerly awaiting the arrival of new foals next year. Despite the challenges ahead, Tartaglia remains committed to making each day meaningful. “I want to make these last years count,” he says, looking forward to the upcoming summer in Saratoga.