VIP Derby Auction Benefits Retired Racehorses

TwinSpires and the Paulick Report have teamed up to auction a pair of tickets to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Longines Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) to benefit the Retired Racehorse Project.

The auction is now live on Starquine, and all proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Retired Racehorse Project, a 501(c)3 charity that "exists to facilitate placement of Thoroughbred ex-racehorses in second careers by increasing demand for them in equestrian sports and serving the farms, trainers, and organizations that transition them."

"The Retired Racehorse Project is a great reminder that without this magnificent animal - the Thoroughbred - the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs wouldn't be the focus of the world's attention each year on the first Saturday in May," Paulick Report publisher Ray Paulick said.

The auction is for a pair of Oaks and Derby tickets on May 6-7 at Churchill Downs in the courtyard section, which is directly in front of the owners' boxes in sections 118-119. The courtyard area includes covered access to a buffet, open bar, and restrooms exclusive. Food and beverages are included with the tickets.

"Whether racing in the Kentucky Derby or never have raced, every Thoroughbred has his or her place in our world, and the Retired Racehorse Project helps them find it," said Ed DeRosa, TwinSpires director of communications. "This industry exists because of the Thoroughbred, so it's important for those in it to make sure to give back to his magnificent animal."

The auction closes at 7 p.m. EDT on April 15, 2016.