The Standardbred Retirement Foundation has announced that name of its raffle winner that will soon be taking a trip to the Prix d'Amerique in Paris or to Ireland for a castle stay and ride.

The raffle winner is Donna Wenskoski of Iselin, NJ.

When the SRF shared the news with Wenskoski, she replied with, "You're kidding." The phrase was repeated a few times until it finally made sense to her. A recent adopter, Linda Spoto, had bought the ticket for Donna, her co-worker, as a Christmas present, and Donna had promised to take her along if she was to win.

Spoto, and her husband, Victor, adopted Forchu and Hopefull N from SRF, and live fairly close by. Lucky for the horses, Victor is retired and fusses over them a great deal. His farm may be the only one with horses, yet not a speck of horse manure. The Spotos stop by the office on occasion with gifts for SRF's horses, halters, bits, lead ropes, and more. Being supportive of the mission, Linda thought it would be ideal to buy a ticket as a present, an idea that makes a whole lot of sense, as holiday shopping in these times is not an easy task.

The SRF appreciates the kindness of the Spotos and that of everyone who supported the important fundraiser. Tickets were still being sold up to the drawing time by telephone and email.

Proceeds from the fundraiser assist the SRF in its daily cost of approximately $3,000 to feed and care for the horses under its expense.

Donna and Linda now have the delightful decision to make, Paris or Ireland.

(With files from the SRF)