CARMA Reports Successful Charity Night

The Del Mar horse crowd dug deep into their pockets July 18 to raise more than $80,000 for retired racehorses at the California Retirement Management Account's annual CARMA Cares Charity Fundraiser.

After a day of unseasonable stormy weather, including several hours of rain, "Cards 4 CARMA", held at the Del Mar Hilton Hotel, was enjoyed by more than 150 owners, trainers, jockeys, and fans. The evening included live music provided by Eric Auckerman's West Coasters Band, a silent auction, a charity Texas hold 'em poker tournament, and various card games. 

Elizabeth Ellis, cheered on by fiancé Joe Talamo and many racetrack regulars, was this year's winner of the Texas hold 'em poker tournament.

"So many people donated items for the auction, purchased tickets, and sponsored the event this year," said CARMA's executive director Lucinda Mandella. "We could not put together such a fun event and raise these kinds of dollars without the support of our entire community—owners, trainers, jockeys, agents, sponsors, and volunteers."  

CARMA founder Madeline Auerbach expressed her gratitude for all the support given by the racing industry. 

"We are so thankful for the support we receive from everyone each and every year," Auerbach said. "They make it possible for us to help so many horses."

This year's grand prize, a Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino weekend package, including hotel, dinner and theater tickets, was donated by MGM Resorts International. Additional sponsors included Auerbach, Bardy Farm, David Bienstock, Bruce Chandler Racing, California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Daily Racing Form, Double J H Stables, Rick and Marcia Gold, Harris Farms, Havens Bloodstock, Jay Em Ess Stable, Liberty Road Stable, Little Red Feather Racing Club, Narvick International, Pamplemousse Grille, Rancho San Miguel, Jim and Janet Rome, Santa Anita Park, TVG-Betfair, Westrux International, and Chuck Winner.  

All CARMA donations will be used to help care for retired racehorses whose careers have ended after competing in California Thoroughbred races. Through a detailed grant process, facilities that care for these Thoroughbreds may apply for funding on an annual basis. Last year, CARMA awarded more than $500,000 to a variety of charities that retire, retrain, and re-home former Thoroughbred racehorses.