Cherie DeVaux and her family are backing a Saratoga Springs fundraiser after a barn fire at the nearby harness track killed 17 horses on 16 June.
The Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes-winning trainer has donated Golden Tempo memorabilia to the Harnessing Hope benefit, which is being organised for those affected by the fire at the Saratoga Casino Hotel harness track.
The event is scheduled for Wednesday from 5pm to 9pm at the Horseshoe Inn Bar & Grill in Saratoga Springs, with food sales, live music and auctions set to raise money for the impacted horsepeople. A Times Union report said more than 250 auction items have been gathered, including a halter worn by Golden Tempo.
NYRA Adds $50,000 Donation
NYRA has also announced a $50,000 donation to the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association and is selling shirts to support those affected, with proceeds going to the same cause.
The New York State Gaming Commission is reviewing the circumstances of the blaze and fire prevention methods after firefighters arrived to find the Nelson Avenue barn engulfed in flames. A public memorial for the 17 horses is due to be held at the harness track on Sunday, with a permanent memorial also planned on the grounds.
For DeVaux, whose family’s profile has surged through Golden Tempo’s Classic wins, the response turns a championship season into a wider racing-community effort.
