Belmont Ball Raised $175,000 for Research

The Belmont Ball, hosted by the New York Racing Association on June 5 at Belmont Park, raised more than $175,000 for the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. The black-tie event this year honored internationally renowned equine artist Richard Stone Reeves and also paid tribute to Affirmed on the 25th anniversary of his Triple Crown triumph.

"I cannot adequately thank the New York Racing Association and all of the sponsors, advertisers and attendees for their generosity and their support," said Nancy Kelly, vice president of development for the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. "These funds will aid the ongoing efforts of our researchers and scientists as they seek to enhance the health and welfare of all horses."

The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is currently funding 19 research projects at 11 universities throughout North America for $748,116. Over the last two decades, the foundation has provided more than $10.2 million to underwrite 178 separate projects at 31 universities.

Current research addresses key issues of health and soundness that affect a great many horses of all breeds and uses. These include laminitis, West Nile virus, pneumonia, and cartilage repair.