Empire Racing Club Launched

[Wandering Eyes]

The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA) has launched the Empire Racing Club, a non-profit organization designed to introduce fans to racehorse ownership. New York’s beloved retired racecaller Tom Durkin will serve as managing partner, and Eclipse Award-winner Todd Pletcher will be the Club trainer.

“We are committed to helping grow the sport of horse racing,” said Durkin, who is also a NYTHA Board Member. “We believe that the Empire Racing Club will offer a low-cost entry point to fans and potential new owners, with very little risk.”

Proceeds from the Empire Racing Club, a not-for-profit tax-exempt social club, will be used to pay the expenses of the horse and the Club. Any excess funds will be distributed to a 501 (c) (3) non-profit aftercare organization. The Club membership agreement specifically names New York’s TAKE THE LEAD Thoroughbred Retirement Program as the designee.

“It was very important to NYTHA that this Racing Club include an aftercare component,” NYTHA Executive Director Andy Belfiore said. “We are very proud of the work that our TAKE THE LEAD Program has done in working with Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredited partners to find homes for the horses retiring from the NYRA tracks.”

The Club will be limited to 200 members. The cost to join will be $500 for the term, with no further outlay by the participants.

“What I think is great about a racing club is that it gives the opportunity for a new owner to come in at a high level and be exposed to the game with someone who can guide them through the learning process,” Pletcher said. “It’s an introductory way without a huge investment that really brings you to the forefront of top racing.”

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