In an effort to raise needed funds during the 2015 season, the not-for profit Goshen Historic Track embarked on a fundraiser centered around the running of the Kentucky Derby.
Even as a late entity, the National Historic Landmark attracted 70 patrons, who not only enjoyed the race card at Louisville, Ky., but were treated to food and cocktails throughout the afternoon.
This year, again, the world’s oldest harness track scheduled another Derby Day festivity fundraiser.
“The Derby Day party works out real well for us since those who attend can also wager on the races in Kentucky at an off-track location at Delancey’s Restaurant, which is adjacent to Historic Track,” noted Tim Masters, the track’s supervisor who was the impetus behind the project.
But Masters wasn’t alone in producing the Derby Day projects. Joining him were Linda Meyer, secretary to the board; Georgia Baker, who assists Meyer in the track office, and Roger Dowd, who runs the track website and supplied invaluable news releases to help make the day a success.
And this season, with a few changes in venue, more than 165 supporters of Historic Track turned out on May 7 which was more than a one hundred per cent increase over last year’s offering. And it’s safe to say that everyone had a good time.
“With an entertaining live band and plenty of food and drinks, we think we have a winning combination,” added board member Tony Statuto, who attended the afternoon fun along with his wife and two daughters. “Hopefully the numbers will grow in following years and we can continue to raise needed money for Historic Track.”
This year’s festivities also marked the second annual Derby Day Hat Contest, which attracted 25 contestants, almost double the number of participants from last year.
All the action took place under a big tent which was set up on the racetrack with four huge television sets tethered to the poles underneath the tent. Tables were set up and the TVs could be viewed from any seat.
“If this year is any indication, hopefully we can look forward to even bigger attendances as the word gets out about the fun-filled afternoon program we offer on Kentucky Derby Day,” noted George Casale, the VP of the track’s board of directors, who along with his family and friends added 12 people to the afternoon crowd.
“It’s no secret that Historic Track needs all the funds we can get to continue in this ever-changing world.”
“We had all the seats filled this year and we got a lot of compliments from those who attended,” Masters added. “Next year we’ll probably need two tents.”
(Historic Track)