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Florida Thoroughbred Retirement Group has Successful Fundraiser

Florida Thoroughbred Retirement Group has Successful Fundraiser
 
February 11, 2011
By Kent H. Stirling, FHBPA Executive Director
 
 
A fundraising event for retired Thoroughbred race horses that ended their racing careers at either Calder or Gulfstream Park was held on Saturday, February 5, 2011, at Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino.  It was hosted by the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (FHBPA), Gulfstream Park and Florida TRAC, (Thoroughbred Retirement and Adoptive Care), the event was catered by Christine Lees restaurant at Gulfstream Park.
 
Recognizing the need for a South Florida based Thoroughbred retirement program, the group is dedicated to retraining and placing retired race horses in adoptive homes.  Many go on to successful second careers in the show ring, on the polo field or in therapeutic riding programs.
 
TRAC’s efforts depend on a strong alliance between race tracks, industry officials, trainers, owners, jockeys, horse lovers and fans,” said Phil Combest, TRAC Advisory Board member, race horse owner and FHBPA Vice President.  “The racing industry is demonstrating its support through purse contributions and annual donations.  But we still need to raise additional funds from our fans and supporters to accommodate the care and retraining of over 100 horses who have come into our program after retiring from racing.”
 
The fundraiser included a Silent Auction featuring:  paintings by equine artist Frankie Flores; caricatures by Peb; the chance to join Gulfstream track announcer, Larry Collmus, as he calls a live race from the booth; a handicapping session with Gulfstream racing analyst, Ron Nicoletti; a weekend getaway; box seats for the Sony Ericsson Tennis Open; gift certificates, signed racing photos; and memorabilia from an Eclipse Award winning South Florida race horse, among others.
 
Over $12,000 was raised for TRAC by the Silent Auction.