The Retirement Assistance and Care for Equine Fund (R.A.C.E. Fund), a 501 C 3 non-profit organization, launches its spring fund drive with an online auction on eBay May 25 at 8 p.m. The auction ends June 1.
The auction is to help raise funds for racehorse retirement and rescue. The auction proceeds will also benefit Promethia, a 31-year-old mare by Alydar that was rescued in May 2011.
"We know Promethia has to be one of the oldest living descendants by Alydar" stated Marlene Murray, president of the R.A.C.E. Fund. "However, we recently discovered that multiple grade I winner Turkoman who is also by Alydar and 31 years old is still alive and doing well in California.
"We have since learned of two other Throroughbreds by Alydar in their 20s, 22-year-old Aide Memoire and Train Robbery who is 26, so it appears Alydar also passed on longevity in many of his offspring," she said.
Auction items include:
A framed picture of Rachel Alexandra from when she won the Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) signed by trainer Hal Wiggins and Hall of Fame jockey Calvin Borel
Photos of 2009 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Mine That Bird and 2007 Derby winner Street Sense both signed by Calvin Borel
"5000 Club" picture by Coady Photography signed by jockeys, Calvin Borel, Tim Doocy, Larry Snyder, Mark Guidry, and Mike Smith.
Racing programs signed by Hall of Fame trainer, Jack Van Berg and Bill Mott.
Several books including "Secretariat's Meadow" signed by Penny Chenery; and "Jack, From Grit to Glory" signed by Jack Van Berg and author Chris Kotulak among others.
Three Chimneys Farm has donated a halter from stallion Flower Alley, the sire of 2012 Kentucky Derby winner I'll Have Another .
In addition, the Palomino Entertainment Group has created a special edition CD with original music and sound effects called "Your Daughter's Journey" written by Marlene Murray and read by actress Victoria Racimo. It is a touching letter from Promethia to her father, Alydar. The CD will be available to buy at a set price of $12 each plus shipping costs.
More information about the R.A.C.E. Fund can be obtained at www.racefund.org. Any questions about the auction or items or inquiries about wanting to donate a racing item can be sent to info@racefund.org