Freirich Pledges in Breeders' Cup Charities Campaign

Breeders' Cup Limited today announced a generous pledge from Better World Records in conjunction with 40 Days of Giving, a fundraising program that puts key Thoroughbred industry charities in the spotlight as the countdown continues to the 40th running of the Breeders' Cup World Championships Nov. 3-4 at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.

Founded by Thoroughbred owner, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and songwriter/executive producer Ken Freirich, Better World Records will make a $20,000 donation to Breeders' Cup Charities if the 40th Day $20,000 match goal is met during the final stage of the program. Breeders' Cup Limited has pledged to match up to $20,000 of funds raised on the 40th day which, in conjunction with Mr. Freirich's donation, could see $60,000 being raised on the final day alone.

Breeders' Cup Charities' 40 Days of Giving campaign highlights the vital work of Thoroughbred industry nonprofits in the following areas: aftercare, jockey health and wellness, backstretch and industry workers, equine services, diversity and education, and research. The synergy between 40 Days of Giving and Better World Records highlights Freirich's strong philanthropic calling. A longtime drummer, he is also the founder of Random Acts of Kindness, a music artist and collective that believes in having a positive impact on the world through meaningful lyrics, kindness, and philanthropy.

"Breeders' Cup Charities is so thankful to Mr. Freirich and Better World Records for supporting 40 Days of Giving with such generosity," said Stefanie Palmieri, Vice President of Events at Breeders' Cup Limited. "The outpouring of support for these vital industry charities has been inspirational thus far, and we're looking forward to raising additional awareness and support as we head toward the finish line at the World Championships."

The $20,000 match donation from Better World Records on behalf of Random Acts of Kindness celebrates the new single "Free to Roam," a top 20 Billboard AC hit.

Written by Freirich, "Free to Roam" is a song about liberation, freedom, self-expression, and empowerment. It is about breaking free from the chains of a challenging life situation, overcoming adversity, following your dreams and passions, and living life to its fullest on your own terms. The music video for the song was filmed and cast in Los Angeles, featuring individuals who overcame their challenges, went through transformative life experiences, and became Free to Roam.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Freirich is an investor in Thoroughbred racehorses and in 2022 had the honor of being a partner through West Point Thoroughbreds in Flightline, winner of the 2022 Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1). The undefeated colt went on to be named the World's Best Racehorse for 2022 and Horse of the Year and Champion Older Dirt Male in the United States.

"I am thrilled to partner with the Breeders Cup to support their charitable mission on this wonderful occasion, the 40th Running of the Breeders Cup," said Freirich, founder and CEO of Better World Records. "I really was moved by the 40 Days of Giving program and hope to inspire others to give to these very deserving Thoroughbred industry nonprofits. Thoroughbreds, philanthropy, and music are all so close to my heart, it is truly a joy to make a charitable impact while celebrating our new hit single, Free to Roam, which is now topping the charts."

Throughout the 40 Days of Giving program, designated charities and their selected donors -- who show support for each cause by offering a match of up to $1,000 on their dedicated day -- are featured at Breederscup.com/Giving. Funds raised on each of the beneficiaries' dedicated days go directly to the designated charity. Funds raised on the 40th day will be distributed evenly to all 40 Days of Giving charities. The donation pages will remain open through the Breeders' Cup World Championships. 

A check presentation celebrating funds raised during the 40 Days of Giving campaign will be made Nov. 4 to designated charity representatives in the winner's circle at Santa Anita Park, including the $20,000 match presented by a representative from Better World Records.

Donors participating in 40 Days of Giving include Bob Babbage, Barbara Banke, Bluewater Sales, Brook Ledge, Brookside Nursery, Stuart Brown II DVM, Javier Castellano, CJ Thoroughbreds, Alan Cooper, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Double L Racing, Steve Duncker, Gainesway Farm, Tyler Gaffalione, Hallway Feeds, Lawrence Herring, Juan Hernandez, Fred Hertrich III, Hronis Racing, Lane's End, Little Red Feather Cares, Patrick Masson, Nathan McCauley, Old Smoke Clothing Co., Rancho Temescal, Santa Anita Park, Flavien Prat, Stephen Reed DVM, Thomas Riddle DVM & Margaret Riddle, Gino Roncelli, Jaime Roth, Saratoga Spring Water, Mike Smith, Spendthrift Farm, Sterling Thompson Equine Insurance, John Velazquez, Elliott & Rebecca Walden, West Point Thoroughbreds, and WinStar Farm.   

For official guidelines and to donate, visit http://www.breederscup.com/Giving.

From its ground-breaking debut of multi-million-dollar races in 1984 to record-setting triumphs in the modern era, the rich heritage of the Breeders' Cup is woven into horse racing's history. The 40th running campaign, marked by the slogan "It Runs Deep," highlights 39 years of international competition and resulting champions via innovative fan and participant engagement opportunities across multiple platforms and on-site at Santa Anita Park. For more information, fans can visit BreedersCup.com/40.