On Saturday, July 27, Harrah’s Hoosier Park will host the fifth annual Empire of Hope day. The Empire of Hope event is dedicated to raise funds for the after care of retired racehorses, with all proceeds directly benefitting the Standardbred Transition Alliance to assist efforts to relocate, rehabilitate and repurpose retired standardbred racehorses.

“This night has quickly turned into one of the signature nights of our Standardbred racing season,” said Vice President and General Manager of Racing, Rick Moore. “It has become a major fundraiser for the aftercare of Standardbred racehorses, and our way of showing our appreciation for the equine athletes that make our sport so great.”

Through a variety of promotions, donations, and activities, Harrah’s Hoosier Park will work to raise awareness and funding to assist in the mission. Racing fans attending the event will have the opportunity to make contributions and learn more about aftercare efforts as well as get up close and personal with the equine athletes. In 2023, Harrah’s Hoosier Park saw a record amount raised for the event with over $50,000 donated to the Standardbred Transition Alliance.

“We invite everyone to join us for an outstanding night of entertainment,” he continued. “And maybe even kick in a dollar or two for this most worthy cause!”

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 26, guests can donate $5 at the Caesars Reward Center in the casino, and in turn receive $5 free slot play through Harrah’s Hoosier Park’s Give $5, Get $5 promotion. The Give $5, Get $5 promotion will continue Saturday at the Caesars Rewards center on property from 10 - 12 a.m.

On Saturday, July 27, guests can donate $5 to the Standardbred Transition Alliance to receive a mystery voucher. The mystery vouchers will vary in worth, with the top prize being $100. The mystery vouchers will be available at a table across from the Pegasus Lounge from 6 - 8 p.m. or while supplies last.

Available now through July 27, guests will have the opportunity to purchase an official Empire of Hope T-shirt at the Programs Stand for a donation of $10. T-shirts will be sold while supplies last. Racing fans are encouraged to wear their Empire of Hope T-shirts to the event.

Also, located throughout the property are official Empire of Hope donations boxes. Guests are encouraged to donate cash, coins or Tito Tickets into the donation boxes.

Drivers, trainers, and owners racing at Harrah’s Hoosier Park are also giving back by committing a percentage of their nightly racing earnings to support the Empire of Hope cause. In addition, there will also be an Empire of Hope silent auction on the Harrah’s Hoosier Park backside from 11 a.m - 5 p.m. Harrah’s Hoosier Park horsemen can place their bid on a multitude of gifts and prizes, with the silent auction winners being contacted at the conclusion of the auction. Harrah’s Hoosier Park’s drivers and trainers will also be featured in an arcade- style basketball and football shootout. For a $5 donation, racing fans can take on their favourite Harrah’s Hoosier Park driver one-on-one for an opportunity to win swag and bragging rights from 6 - 8 p.m. on the track apron.

Guests will also have the opportunity to hop in a jog bike and take a lap around the Harrah’s Hoosier Park oval behind a racehorse as part of Charity Chariots. Located in the Front Paddock from 3 - 5 p.m., guests can secure their ride alongside a Hoosier Park horseman for a $20 donation.

Additionally, the Indiana Standardbred Association will provide a virtual reality station set up in the lower level of the Grandstand during live racing where guests can hop in the bike for a virtual race to experience the thrill of harness racing.

Saturday, July 27 will also mark the first Family Fun Saturday of the season at Harrah’s Hoosier Park. The activities will include free carnival style rides in addition to inflatable slides, rock wall, oversized trampolines, and more. The outdoor activities will take place in The Yard located on the track apron from 2 - 10 p.m. Additionally, Honey Hill Farm Petting Zoo will be located in the front paddock beginning at 6 p.m. Guests may also look forward to live music, local vendors, and food trucks as they enjoy their evening of racing.

All proceeds from the evening’s charitable activities will be earmarked for the Standardbred Transition Alliance who will provide grants in funding of 501(c)(3) groups serving Standardbreds and ensure they utilize best practices for equine care and financial management through an accreditation process.

(Hoosier Park)