(Edited press release)
Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA), has selected Todd Pletcher, the North American leader in purse earnings from 2004-2007, to receive this year’s TCA “Charity Leadership Award” Dec. 5 at Keeneland, during their 19th Annual TCA Stallion Season and Art auction.
Pletcher began the 2008 season with a bang, saddling his 2,000th career winner at historic Santa Anita Park Jan. 13. Just days before, Pletcher accepted his fourth Eclipse Award as North America’s Outstanding Trainer for 2007. In classic style, he thanked his powerful team of assistant horsemen for aiding in his success.
Pletcher is a strong believer in charity and for the third year in a row, has agreed to donate his entire roster of seasons to the TCA Stallion Season and Art Auction, which begins Dec. 1st. The powerful lineup of seasons has brought increased awareness for the charities while also encouraging by example, what it means to give back to the industry.
Dot Morgan, Founder and Executive Director of New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, has been selected for this year’s TCA “Industry Service Award." Under Morgan’s leadership, New Vocations has grown into the largest racehorse adoption program in the country annually placing over 300 retired racehorses into carefully screened and monitored homes. New Vocations success can be traced to Morgan’s emphasis on professionally evaluating, transitioning, and presenting each horse for its potential in a new career. Rather than simply retiring them, a purpose is sought for every horse.
Morgan founded New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program in 1992 in response to the thousands of racehorses going to slaughter. The Program rapidly grew from placing 40 horses a year to where it is, now, having placed nearly 3000 injured and downsized racehorses since its inception.
To donate seasons or for more information and reservations to the event, please call Liz Harris: 859-312-5531 or visit www.ThoroughbredCharities.org.
