APRIL 16, 2024 PRESS RELEASE — The Churchill Downs Foundation has partnered with 20 TAA-accredited Thoroughbred aftercare organizations for the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I), pledging a substantial $150,000 donation to support the vital mission of these organizations.

On Monday, April 29, a special aftercare post position draw will be held on the Churchill Downs backside where each horse in the Kentucky Derby field will be paired with an aftercare organization.

“We’re thrilled to embark on this meaningful partnership with 20 of the best aftercare organizations in North America,” said Cathy Shircliff, Director of Equine Industry Relations for Churchill Downs Incorporated. “The Kentucky Derby is the pinnacle of Thoroughbred racing and it is all of our responsibilities to ensure every horse receives the care and support they deserve after their career on the racetrack.”

Award Distribution

$25,000 – 1st Place
$20,000 – 2nd Place
$15,000 – 3rd Place
$10,000 – 4th Place
$5,000 to 5th-20th Place

The organizations chosen this year are: After the Races, Friends of Ferdinand, Galloping Out, Horse and Hound Rescue, James River Horse Foundation, Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, New Vocations, Old Friends, Racing For Home, Remember Me Rescue, ReRun, Inc., Second Stride, Secretariat Center, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, ThoroughbredRetirement Network of Louisiana, TRRAC, United Pegasus Foundation, Virginia Thoroughbred Project and Win Place Home.

Fans are encouraged to place a donation for their favorite Kentucky Derby contenders on the Derby Gives donation page.

About Churchill Downs Foundation

The Churchill Downs Foundation is committed to providing positive stewardship for the horse racing industry. The Foundation is deeply focused on supporting connections to the equine industry and ensuring its continued growth and stability. In addition to industry-related initiatives, the Foundation is committed to funding that will enhance and invigorate the quality of life for the neighborhoods surrounding Churchill Downs Racetrack.

CDI and its properties follow a long tradition of corporate social responsibility and have been committed charitable partners for decades. The company has had significant impact on the many communities in which we operate, and through corporate giving, over $5 million in charitable grants and in-kind donations is contributed annually to over 800 organizations. The Churchill Downs Foundation exists separately to protect and improve the industry that we love and celebrate as racing fans.