The Churchill Downs Foundation has partnered with 20 distinguished Thoroughbred aftercare organizations for the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) by pledging a $150,000 donation to support the vital mission of these organizations.
On Monday, April 29, a special aftercare post- position draw will be held on the Churchill Downs backstretch where each horse in the Kentucky Derby field will be paired with an aftercare organization. Each organization is guaranteed at least a $5,000 donation from the Churchill Downs Foundation, with the organization paired with the winner of the Kentucky Derby receiving a $25,000 donation. The runner-up will be awarded $20,000, the third-place finisher will receive $15,000 and fourth place will get $10,000.
"We're thrilled to embark on this meaningful partnership with 20 of the best aftercare organizations in North America," said Cathy Shircliff, director of equine industry relations for Churchill Downs Incorporated. "The Kentucky Derby is the pinnacle of Thoroughbred racing and it is all of our responsibilities to ensure every horse receives the care and support they deserve after their career on the racetrack."
The organizations chosen this year are: After the Races, Friends of Ferdinand, Galloping Out, Horse and Hound Rescue, James River Horse Foundation, Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, New Vocations, Old Friends, Racing For Home, Remember Me Rescue, ReRun, Inc., Second Stride, Secretariat Center, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Thoroughbred Retirement Network of Louisiana, TRRAC, United Pegasus Foundation, Virginia Thoroughbred Project, and Win Place Home.
Fans are encouraged to place a donation for their favorite Kentucky Derby contenders online at www.kentuckyderby.com/derbygives.
The Churchill Downs Foundation is committed to providing positive stewardship for the horse racing industry. The foundation is deeply focused on supporting connections to the equine industry and ensuring its continued growth and stability. In addition to industry-related initiatives, the foundation is committed to funding that will enhance and invigorate the quality of life for the neighborhoods surrounding Churchill Downs.
The Churchill Downs Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Its board of directors reviews and approves grant requests bi-annually in February and August based on how closely they align with the mission of the foundation. For more information about the Churchill Downs Foundation, visit www.churchilldownsincorporated.com/foundation.
ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK
Churchill Downs Racetrack ("CDRT"), the world's most legendary racetrack, has been the home of the Kentucky Derby, the longest continually held annual sporting event in the United States, since 1875. Located in Louisville, CDRT features a series of themed race days during Derby Week, including the Kentucky Oaks (G1), and conducts Thoroughbred racing during three meets in the spring, September, and the fall. CDRT is located on 175 acres and has a one-mile dirt track, a 7/8-mile turf track, a stabling area, and provides seating for approximately 60,000 guests. The stable area has barns sufficient to accommodate 1,400 horses and a 114-room dormitory for backstretch personnel. CDRT also has a year-round simulcast wagering facility and Race and Sports Book. www.ChurchillDowns.com.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
