Here for the Horse winter appeal
A New Zealand Horse Ambulance Trust fundraising appeal kicked off on 1 August 1, and harness racing is getting involved.
The "Here for the Horse” campaign will run for the next few weeks, warming up winter racing.
“This campaign is about raising funds and awareness of our work in caring for the welfare and well-being of the equine athletes," said NZ Horse Ambulance Trust (NZHAT) Operations and Engagement Manager Jo Starr.
Across codes, across breeds, across disciplines - we’re here for the horse.
New Zealand is unique with a national dedicated horse ambulance service that operates as a charitable trust — just like St John and the rescue helicopters, but for horses. It relies on the generosity of sponsors and donors to operate and receives vital financial support from NZTR and HRNZ through a budgeted welfare allocation.
There are now nine purpose-designed ambulances nationwide, with a 10th funded by the TAB Rejuvenation Fund close to being deployed. This will provide broader coverage across the regions, with six in the North Island and four in the South Island.
A horse ambulance attended close to 700 race meetings, trials, and events last season, and it is only getting busier as demand for the service grows.
Several fundraising initiatives will be launched across the racing codes over the next fortnight to support the Trust.
The Auckland Trotting Club has come to the party at its three Friday Night Lights meetings at Alexandra Park on August 2, 9, and 16, inviting sponsorship of all races on the card. Cambridge Harness has also embraced the idea, with sponsored races at its Tuesday meetings on August 6 and 12.
Thanks to generous sponsors, the sponsorship initiative has already raised over $10,000 for the Trust.
The online auction platform gavelhouse.com is now live with a charity auction that features a selection of ‘unique experiences and items’.
Dexter Dunn and Carter Dalgety celebrating an early win in the United States.
A High-Noon Saloon lunch at Lone Star Spitfire in Christchurch with rising star Carter Dalgety and race commentator and Trackside presenter Matthew Cross. Carter is on an eight-week scholarship stint in the USA, honing his skills and expanding his knowledge of the equine industry. However, he jumped at the chance to be involved in the appeal.
“The Horse Ambulance is one of the best things to ever happen in NZ Racing,” said Dalgety.
In addition, Harness Racing NZ has generously arranged an exciting on-course experience for two at Addington Raceway as part of the auction item. This includes trackside dining with refreshments, participation in a dual sulky race alongside chosen drivers, a conversation with Matt Cross inside the commentary box, plus an exclusive front-seat view from the mobile start.
