Recovery Fund Set Up For Woodbine Fire Victims

In the aftermath of Sunday's fire at Woodbine, in which 32 Thoroughbred racehorses were lost, the racing community has rallied to help those in need with the creation of relief fund.

Several horse people, in conjunction with the Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) and Woodbine Entertainment Group, have created a relief fund for those who suffered immeasurable losses in the tragedy.

Racing fans who attend the races at Woodbine will have a chance to donate to the fund. A collection box has been set up at Woodbine's second floor customer service center.

Trainer Mort Hardy, who has spearheaded the Barn 7 Recovery Fund project, said now is the time for horse people to help horse people in need.

"This is a family (on the backstretch)," Hardy says. "Every family may have their squabbles, but when something like this happens, we all come together. It's wonderful to see everyone band together at a very difficult time."

Both the HBPA and Woodbine Entertainment have seeded the relief fund with $10,000 each.

Racing fans can help by donating to the: BARN 7 RECOVERY FUND
C/O HBPA of Ontario Scotia Bank 135 Queens Plate Drive Etobicoke,
Ontario M9W 6V1
Account # 96032 00562 19 Manager: Michael Grimwood