The Churchill Downs Incorporated Foundation (Churchill Charities) announced
Tuesday the first annual “Poker for Ponies,” a Poker Run and Raffle, which will
be held at Churchill Downs’ Gate 10 on Saturday, September 24, beginning at 8:30
a.m. (EDT).
Car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to participate will get a
chance to road rally from Gate 10 at Churchill Downs to four checkpoints, with
the fifth checkpoint back at Churchill Downs. A cash prize will be awarded to
the winning hand.
Live Bluegrass music will be provided by Steve Norman and The Shades of
Grass, exciting raffles will be ongoing and a best of show award will be
presented at 1 p.m. with cash-basis catering provided by Post-Time Kitchen
beginning at 8:30 a.m. through the conclusion of the Poker Run.
The event is being run by volunteers from Churchill Charities, Kentucky
Equine Humane Center, Churchill Downs and other community volunteers. All
proceeds will benefit KyEHC, which provides humane treatment and shelter while
seeking adoptive homes for all of Kentucky’s unwanted equines and raises
awareness for responsible equine ownership. KyEHC has provided shelter and
care for more than 600 horses since opening its doors in April 2007.
“We wanted to create a unique family-friendly experience under the Twin
Spires for the benefit of our equine athletes,” CDI Vice President and Churchill
Charities Executive Director Liz Harris said. “We’re hoping for a crisp fall day
and great turnout for this inaugural event and are grateful for our sponsor,
Churchill Downs.”
Registration and raffles will be open at Churchill Downs’ Gate 10 at 8:30
a.m. with the Poker Run beginning at 9 a.m., and a staggered start for those
signing up through the morning. Registration is $25 for each Poker Run hand
dealt, or $20 if pre-registered by September 21. The event is free to friends,
spectators and non-entrants, who may elect to participate in the numerous
raffles.
For more information, pre-registration, or volunteer opportunities please
visit www.KyEHC.org, e-mail
Info@KyEHC or call 859-881-5849.