From coveted racing memorabilia, halters of champions and unique gifts to original art, handcrafted goods, quality services, and one-of-a-kind experiences, Florida Thoroughbred Charities kicked off the Horse Capital of the World® auction online benefiting Thoroughbred retirement and youth education programs.
The FTC auction runs until 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8 and is sponsored by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association and media partners Horse Capital Television and Florida Equine Communications. Kathleen’ O Connell Racing Stables is also a sponsor of the first online auction held by the charity which has been unable to host its annual fundraisers at the FTBOA Gala and FTC charity golf tournament.
Thanks to the generous support of the thoroughbred community and the vendors who service the industry, FTC has 57 items up for bid and is adding items daily. Featured items include the halters of Justify, Speightstown, Wildcat Heir and the Arrogate-Songbird filly. A number of original art pieces and photographs are part of the offering and are by Alaura Allen, Linda Reitz, Tina Powers, Carol Moore Demme, Butch Crawford and Serita Hult.
Historical memorabilia includes a framed Hialeah opening day photo and Kentucky Derby programs for Carry Back, 1961, and Triple Crown winner Affirmed, 1978. Autographed items include a photo of Colonial Affair signed by Julie Krone, a Secretariat by Fred Stone limited edition plate signed by jockey Ron Turcotte, a signed first edition of Secretariat Reborn by award-winning author and thoroughbred breeder Susan Klaus and an American Pharoah print signed by jockey Victor Espinoza.
FTC is the charitable arm of the FTBOA. Since 1990, FTC has strengthened and supported the community by raising more than $3.5 million for charitable organizations within the thoroughbred industry, the city of Ocala, Marion County and the state of Florida. The charity primarily funds the Second Chances Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) farm at the Lowell Correctional Institution giving women there a chance to learn equine skills so they can be placed on farms for employment after release.
In 2020, the farm celebrated its 20 year anniversary and is the only female inmate program partnering with retired thoroughbreds in the United States. The program has a low recidivism rate. The former racehorses each inmate works with positively change their lives. FTC also funds youth education including scholarships.
The auction can be viewed at https://www.32auctions.com/horsecapitaloftheworld and most items are available for purchase worldwide and will be shipped or can be pick-up in Ocala, Fla. Check item descriptions for details. The charity is also accepting donations or sponsorships by making checks payable to FTC, 801 SW 60th Avenue, Ocala FL 34474 or call 352-629-2160 for details.
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