The Standardbred Retirement Foundation has announced the winner of its annual raffle for either a trip to the Elitlopp or a ride in Ireland.
Mark Dively, a Buckeye, is this year’s raffle winner. The SRF does not know which trip Dively will choose just yet, but his wife was thrilled to get the great news. “It’s amazing,” shared Mrs. Dively. “I’m so excited.” The Divelys have a teenage son and will likely add on to the big win to have him join them.
The Divelys – racehorse owners who are without any horses at the moment – may chose the Elitlopp trip, which includes a five-day, four-night stay for two in the very heart of Stockholm. The trip also includes sightseeing, cocktail parties, breakfast, a trip to the yearling sale and to Menhammer Stud farm, the big race, and more. The Ireland trip featured a five-day, four-night stay at a fabulous eighteenth-century castle. The trip includes lessons or riding (for beginners to advanced) for three hours a day in many disciplines. There are 1,000 miles of trails through forests, and fields. The castle has a full spa, and other activities are available as well, including golf.
All raffle ticket sales support the 374 trotters and pacers SRF has under its full expense. SRF has no regular funding to support these horses. The SRF would like to give thanks to Marc and Marcia Goldberg (of Arch Madness fame) for their generous sponsorship of the raffle, and to all of those that stand behind these beautiful horses alongside SRF, which makes the fundraiser such a success.
(With files from SRF)