Shenandoah Downs has carded a huge 14-race, stakes-laden program for Saturday, Oct. 19, with Racing Secretary Dee Lineweaver focusing on honouring the memory of Cathy Rutherford.

Rutherford, 58, succumbed to breast cancer on Sept. 28 after a valiant battle with the disease with Lineweaver remembering her contributions to the track saying, “There are no adequate words to describe Cathy. She was an amazing addition to our organization who gave others inspiration with her beautiful soul.

“Her passing leaves a deep void here and we will remember her forever, but, first, on Saturday as we present our very own Pink Power Day.”

A quintet of the leading women drivers will compete in the event with Stacey McLenaghan, Betsy Brown, Alexandria Golden, Veronica Merton and Sierra Seidner all competing in honouring their great friend.

Cathy Rutherford, herself, had quite a career in harness racing as both a trainer and driver having 109 training wins and 203 driving wins. 

Regarding the 'Pink Power Race For the Cure,' McLenaghan said, “I am so pleased to be in this event honouring Cathy. She was a great paddock judge here for many years and went beyond lengths to help us horsemen and women that race here. She was a blessing to all of us and we miss her spirit and great nature.”

Pacing Secretary Lineweaver has also carded two United States Amateur Drivers Club (USADC) events enabling the track to make a $2,000 USD donation to the Shenandoah Valley Chapter of the American Cancer Society.

There will also be 50-50 draw and a Booze Wagon Raffle with proceeds also going the Chapter, as well.

Lineweaver added, “The USHDC members donate every single dollar earned from driving in these events for charitable causes enabling these contributions and our ‘partnership’ to help our surrounding communities and further enhance the reputation of our great sport.”

Racing continues at Shenandoah Downs through Oct. 27.

(Shenandoah Downs)