On Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21, Caesars’ racing properties will launch Empire of Hope, a new program designed to help raise awareness and funding for the care of horses after their racing careers are over.
Developed with support from accredited racehorse aftercare programs, Empire of Hope will directly assist efforts to relocate, rehabilitate and repurpose retired horses.
“Empire of Hope is a direct reflection of the appreciation and pride we have for the horses that participate in Caesars’ racing program,” said Rick Moore, Vice President and General Manager of Racing at Harrah’s Hoosier Park. “Our equine athletes are the stars of our sport and we want to ensure that when they retire, they are placed in productive and loving environments to live out a long and healthy life.”
This year’s event at Harrah’s Hoosier Park will take place on Saturday, July 20 and is one of the highlights on the racing calendar. 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. Harrah’s Hoosier Park is proud to announce Tito’s Handmade Vodka as the presenting sponsor for the entire Empire of Hope event.
Beginning at 11 a.m., all Harrah’s Hoosier Park guests donating $5 to Empire of Hope through the Caesars Rewards center will receive $5 in free slot play or a $5 race wager. 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.
Beginning at 6 p.m., a red carpet racehorse fashion show will take place in the front side paddock Saturday evening and feature horses dressed up as celebrities. Guests can join in on the fun and buy tickets for $2 to vote for their favorite contestants. Additionally, all guests who purchase a ticket will be entered to win a pair of tickets to the Diana Ross concert at Harrah’s Hoosier Park.
Harness racing’s richest horse, Foiled Again, will also join in the festivities and be available in the front paddock from 6:30-8 p.m. Guests who donate to Empire of Hope will have the opportunity to meet and take a picture with the legendary racehorse.
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, Harrah’s Hoosier Park is hosting a stable fundraising challenge on the backside. The stable that raises the most money for Empire of Hope will win a $250 gift certificate to Midwest Harness Supply and a catered stable party.
Along with winner’s circle giveaways and entertainment, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption program will be on hand to provide information, answer questions and sell merchandise. The always popular country duo, Cook and Belle, will perform a free show in between live racing in The Yard. Guests can also enjoy live racing, food trucks, activities, games, and variety of events for fans of all ages throughout the evening.
(Harrah's Hoosier Park)