A Standardbred Ring for a very special cause was held as a part of the prestigious 2021 Barastoc Horse of the Year Show at Werribee Park Equestrian Centre on February 14.
For the first time the event – co-ordinated by the Harness Racing Victoria HERO Program - was staged under the umbrella of the Team Teal Campaign. Harness Education & Rehoming Opportunities (HERO) was launched in July 2015 as a joint initiative of Harness Racing Victoria and the State Government via the Victorian Racing Industry Fund, and creates positive pathways for Standardbreds exiting the racing environment.
The program was highlighted by Fashions on the Field classes for women and men, where competitors were invited to incorporate a “touch of teal” into their outfits. Survivors Teaching Students volunteer Michelle Gonzalez assisted with the judging, after sharing her story in an address to participants. The Supreme Champion Led and Ridden ribbons and accompanying garlands, won by Savesomtimetodream and Hollie Hildebrandt, were both teal in acknowledgement of the event’s important message.
Seventeen retired Standardbred racehorses who have transitioned into a new life in the show ring participated on the day, proudly raising $955 to support WomenCan.
