The heart and soul of Midwest Thoroughbreds, Inc., Richard and Karen Papiese have been the driving force behind making Midwest Thoroughbreds what it is today.

Beginning racing under the Midwest Thoroughbreds, Inc. name in 2003 making just 8 starts, Richard and Karen have grown the operation into what it is today, with nearly 350 horses at any time. Midwest Thoroughbreds have led the nation in victories in 2010, 2011 and 2012, also leading in earnings in 2011 and 2012.

While the performance on track can be seen, behind the scenes, Richard and Karen support numerous charitable organizations. Those organizations include groups for retired race horses, different racetrack chaplaincy organizations and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.