Grayson-Jockey Club Fundraiser Benefits UF Vet School

Dr. Chris Sanchez, associate professor of large animal medicine, at the University of Florida with two of her patients. (Photos courtesy of University of Florida)
By Penelope P. Miller, America's Best Racing
Much of the fun of an afternoon at the races comes from the scene: the betting, the fashion, the party, the socializing. And at the center of all that stands the horse, on whose back the Thoroughbred industry relies. That’s why the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation (GJCRF) was formed in 1940: to provide funding for research to benefit all equines, from racehorses to children’s ponies and everything in between. 
That effort is taking another major step forward in Florida this year as the Grayson-Jockey Club kicks off its Ocala Initiative, dedicated to raising $200,000 throughout Florida for research to advance equine health and welfare. All funds will be earmarked for equine research at the prestigious University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, one of the preeminent vet schools in the nation. 
SANCHEZ AND PATIENTS

So far, the initiative has garnered donations from such Florida-based racing luminaries including the Ocala Breeders’ Sales, the Florida Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders’ Association and Ocala Stud. Garrett Gleeson, the Director of Development and Major Gifts for GJCRF, said the Foundation is honored to be working with these prestigious organizations and is reaching out to additional equine entities both inside and outside of the Sport of Kings to raise even more funds. “The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is dedicated to the advancement of research to benefit all breeds of horses. We believe the more resources we dedicate to equine research the better the competition will be in all equestrian sports – and ultimately, and most importantly, the healthier our horses will be.” 
The growing interest from the equine community in this initiative is encouraging to Gleeson and the Foundation. “Ultimately the health of equine-related businesses relies on the health of the horse. We’re excited to be partnering with organizations that realize that and are committed to equine research,” Gleeson said. 
When the campaign is completed, the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation plans to replicate it in other Thoroughbred-heavy areas in the future; this includes California, Kentucky and beyond. “It’s a great opportunity for organizations to fund research that has the Grayson-Jockey Club Research stamp of approval. Our Research Advisory Committee ensures that projects we fund are the highest quality research and in top areas of need for equine health. The Ocala Initiative and all of our work is designed to optimize every dollar of support in the advancement of equine research.” 
If you want to get involved in the Ocala Initiative contact Garrett Gleeson at ggleeson@jockeyclub.com. To learn more about the Grayson-Jockey Club Foundation visit their website, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter.