Columbus, MN — The MHRI annual meeting and awards banquet at Running Aces is this Saturday (Feb. 22). In addition to dinner and awards, the organization is holding a silent auction with proceeds going toward the MHRI Benevolence Fund. The fund benefits horses and horsemen in need when circumstances beyond their control find them in such situations.
The auction offers 63 lots including eight Minnesota stallion breedings. All bidders must register online at 32auctions.com in order to participate. Bidding begins Monday (Feb. 17) and concludes on Saturday (Feb. 22) at 6:30 p.m. (CST). Successful bidders will be notified via text or email and payments should be directed through 32 auctions or you may contact MHRI at mhri@mnharness.com.
Included in this year’s auction is a Dan Patch-era high wheel sulky donated by Cathy and Bill Dessert. This historic piece of racing memorabilia once stood proudly at the local Thoroughbred track, Canterbury Park, until 2019 when the Desserts purchased it and brought it to Running Aces. It has been on display over the grand entrance to Running Aces along with the late Steve Wiseman’s colors. Due to the recent remodel of Running Aces, the sulky is once again in need of a place to call home. That home could be yours if you are the highest bidder. The sulky is in a pretty fragile state. The winning bidder will be responsible for pick up and shipment from Ham Lake, Minn.
In addition to the sulky, bidders have their choice of several Duluth Pack bags/purses, a night’s stay at Running Aces, equine massage sessions, shoeing, lots of horse related items, tack, treats and equipment and breedings to some of Minnesota’s top stallions.
“We’re very thankful to our donors,” noted AJ Fetterly, MHRI administrative director. “Without their generosity we wouldn’t be able to help so many horses and horsemen in their time of need.”
To participate in this year’s auction or to donate to the MHRI benevolence fund, go to 32auctions.com.