New Vocations' Open Barn and BBQ to be Held April 28

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 04/18/2023 - 09:09
Link: 
New Vocations' Open Barn and BBQ to be Held April 28
Image: 
Description: 

Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
Real Rider Cup in Lexington on July 9, 2022

New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program will host its sixth annual open barn & BBQ on Friday, April 28, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the program's Lexington facility at Mereworth Farm.

This year's event—held concurrently with the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event, taking place at the nearby Kentucky Horse Park—will feature educational seminars, a MasterClass presented by the Retired Racehorse Project "Introductory Jumping Exercises for OTTBs" and a chance to meet adoptable horses while touring the facility.

"We look forward to welcoming guests to New Vocations at Mereworth Farm," said Anna Ford, New Vocations' Thoroughbred program director. "Our open barn & BBQ is the perfect event for us to showcase our adoptable horses, host inspiring demos and spread the word about these amazing equine athletes."

Guests can expect an interactive educational program featuring live demos on: 

  • Retired Racehorse Project MasterClass focusing on introductory jumping exercises, presented by five- star eventer Sara Kozumplik
  • Common Challenges with Your OTTB presented by New Vocations' Lexington trainer and facility director Leandra Cooper
  • Navigating Old Injuries presented by Veterinarian Dr. Rhodes Bell

Jen Roytz—manager of Brownstead Farm, past executive director of the Retired Racehorse Project, and an OTTB owner and rider—will moderate the sessions. 

Sign up for

In addition, guests will enjoy live music from The Ranahans Trio and a variety of food options from four food trucks and a boutique bar (two drinks included with each ticket), featuring the event's signature cocktails, a Maker's Mark Blackberry Collins and a Tito's Trifecta or other selections from Jackson Family Wines.

Guests can also bid on a large variety of items and experiences, including a trip to Africa and an Exmark zero turn mower in the always popular silent auction, featuring handmade artisan items and a wide variety of equine-themed gifts. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to support New Vocations' mission to rehab, retrain, and rehome retired racehorses.

Gates will open at 3 p.m., with the first demo getting underway at 4 p.m.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased ($30 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under) at https://newvocations.wedoauctions.com. Proceeds from the event will benefit New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.