CARMA and CANTER-CA Sponsor Woodside Preliminary 3-Day Event Challenge
ARCADIA, Calif., May 26, 2016 – Thoroughbred racehorses are among the world’s top athletes. With their tremendous bravery, speed, endurance and willing attitude, these horses have plenty to offer equestrians – even when they retire from racing. To help promote Thoroughbreds in their second careers, California Retirement Management Account (CARMA), a non-profit dedicated to providing funding for the rehabilitation, retraining and/or retirement of Thoroughbred horses that have raced in California, and CANTER-CA are sponsoring an elite horse show – the Woodside Preliminary Challenge.
The highly anticipated 3-day event competition showcases the talent of the horses and riders by testing their skills in dressage, show jumping and cross country. One of the Thoroughbreds participating in the Woodside Preliminary Challenge is CTR Stony Creek – a graduate of the CARMA Placement Program, which helps facilitate the transition from racetrack to aftercare organizations. Originally placed with CANTER-CA in late 2012, Stony Creek was adopted by Lauren Henry from the organization and become a successful show horse.
“Horses like Stony Creek are the reason we enthusiastically support retraining and adoption for off-track Thoroughbreds,” said CARMA Executive Director Lucinda Mandella. “Thoroughbreds are wonderful athletes and his success in eventing demonstrates that. Despite a less than satisfactory career on the racetrack, Stony Creek has become a star in the horse show world, and certainly for his owner Lauren.”
Together, CARMA and CANTER-CA will be presenting the $1,500 High Point Off-Track-Thoroughbred Award to the top placing Thoroughbred finisher. There are 21 retired racehorses facing off for the accolade, most of whom raced in California.
“CANTER is proud to be partnering with CARMA in presenting this award for the fourth year, honoring the OTTB High Point Winner at Woodside. This award celebrates the breed and highlights and promotes the achievements of retired thoroughbred racehorses in second careers”, said Ali Dacher from CANTER-CA. “CANTER California also would like to thank racehorse owners, the Eggert Family, for supporting second careers for retired racehorses and generously donating a portion of this year’s award.”
The Woodside Preliminary Challenge will be held on Friday May 27 through Sunday May 29, 2016 at the Woodside Horse Park in Redwood City, CA. The renowned equestrian center is approximately 272 acres – boasting novice to advanced level cross country courses, eight arenas and exercise track and ideal viewing areas for spectators.
For those looking to help retired racehorses launch their second career, please visit www.carma4horses.org to donate.