On September 21, the annual Pre-Jug party and charity auction was held in Delaware, Ohio, following the Jugette in the big pavilion on the first turn of the famous track.
Trainers, drivers, owners and fans were among the hundreds that came to eat, socialize and bid on a wide variety of unique items that included exotic vacations, historical racing art and memorabilia and even a pony that raises money to benefit New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program and the Delaware County Fair.
More than $60,000 was raised that evening and industry leaders came out in a big way to offer support. In excess of 200 silent auction items were available for bidding throughout the day and 14 live auction items, including a John Deere lawn tractor, a Spyder race bike, Nitro wheels, a case of Wiggle It Jiggleit wine and a peddle powered driving horse were offered during the evening.
The winning bidder of the beautiful paint pony at $9,000 was Peter Gerry, with rumors indicating ‘Wee Biscuit’ may become a live exhibit at the Harness Racing Museum. Leading trainer Casie Coleman, once again, did a wonderful job presenting the pony to the large crowd.
Another highly anticipated item was the opportunity to ride with Montrell Teague behind Wiggle It Jiggleit in leading the post parade for the first heat of the Little Brown Jug. Breana Carsey of MJB Got Faith fame claimed the prize for $2,500 and charmed the crowd the next day.
“Overall, it is such a special event to see our industry come together and help support our efforts with retired racehorses,” stated Winnie Morgan Nemeth, program director for New Vocations. “The Pre-Jug party and auction is a huge fundraiser which helps our mission in providing second careers for Standardbreds coming off the track. We are so thankful for the many volunteers, donors and financial supporters who help make this event possible and the Delaware County Fair for partnering with us.”
For more information on New Vocations, visit newvocations.org.
(New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program)