Event to Raise Funds for Off-Track Horses

An Illinois-based organization called Thoroughbreds Helping Thoroughbreds will host a horse competition and sale Sept. 30 to raise awareness for the opportunities available for off-track Thoroughbreds.

The show, which is restricted to Thoroughbreds, will be held at 18841 White City Rd. in Staunton, Ill. The event begins at 8 a.m. with dressage classes, with hunter and jumper classes starting at 12:30 p.m.

"These horses can do so much more than race," said veterinarian John Steinmeyer, who will host the show on his property. "They deserve a chance at a life after racing, and that's what we're here to do. We want to promote this breed and their amazing capabilities."

At its first show in June, Thoroughbreds Helping Thoroughbreds raised more than $900 for Renaissance Rescue Ranch, a rescue facility near Farmington, Mo.

Renaissance Rescue Ranch boards approximately 60 horses, most of them former Thoroughbred racehorses from Fairmount Park in Collinsville, Ill.

A sale of off-track Thoroughbreds will take place immediately following the competition.

"We're trying to build a community among Thoroughbred horse owners," said Steinmeyer. "Thoroughbreds can become the common denominator to build relationships between people that own them."

"Their fate is often left to chance," Steinmeyer continued. "I hate to see such talented athletes not receive a second opportunity."

Prizes will be awards for each class in the competition. Hand-painted trophies and cash will be awarded for first place, and ribbons will be awarded for subsequent places. 

A $100 donation for each class (15 total classes) in the competition has already been made by Thoroughbred owners and fans.

For more information about the show, contact Holly Steinmeyer at steinmyr@hughes.net.