Laura, OH — Prominent owners are stepping up to support aftercare by participating in the New Vocations Breeders Crown Pledge. This event asks owners, trainers and drivers of Breeders Crown finalists to pledge a percentage of their earnings or commissions from the championship races Saturday night. No amount is too small. Every dollar goes toward the rehabilitation, retraining and re-homing of Standardbreds leaving the track.

So far, Diamond Creek Farm has pledged their exceptional 2-year-old pacing colts Proof and Blood Money, as well as their stellar 3-year-old pacing colt Grand Teton and the awesome older pacing mare Pure Country. Burke Racing Stable and Weaver Bruscemi have pledged their ownership interests in the crack 2-year-old pacing fillies St Somewhere and Warrawee Ubeaut, along with the extremely fast 3-year-old pacing filly Double A Mint and the 3-year-old pacing star Dorsoduro Hanover. Howard Taylor has pledged for his interest in the amazing elimination winners Atlanta, Tactical Landing and Shnitzledosomethin. Jim King Jr. and Jo Ann Looney-King just came on as trainers.

“Diamond Creek Farm has always stressed the importance of aftercare for the Standardbred, from our herd of retired mares to our ex-racehorse babysitters,” said farm owner Adam Bowden. “We applaud the efforts of New Vocations, who with the support of others is able to directly contribute to the successful futures of many of these horses.

“The Standardbred is sadly often overlooked as a riding horse. Intelligent and durable, they can be some of the best companions in the ring or on the trail. Diamond Creek believes it is important to promote the versatility of the breed. We are proud to continue to support New Vocations through this pledge. Through their training and re-homing program, they have been able to educate the public on the attributes of the Standardbred as a riding companion and have provided successful and happy second careers for many deserving animals.”

New Vocations continues to seek pledges from additional owners, trainers and drivers through Saturday. Any that have not pledged but feel especially blessed following the races are encouraged to consider donating to this important effort. To make a pledge, contact Winnie Morgan Nemeth (734.320.7918 or winnie@horseadoption.com) or Dot Morgan (937.947.4020 or dot@horseadoption.com) or go to www.newvocations.org/breeders-crown-pledge.