by Carol Hodes, for the SBOA of New Jersey

Manalapan, NJ — The versatility of retired racehorses will be featured at the Battle of the Breeds on Saturday, August 29, and the 2009 National Standardbred Show on Sunday, August 30, at the Horse Park of New Jersey in Allentown, N.J.

The Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of New Jersey (SPHO-NJ) has created a new partnership with ReRun Thoroughbred Rescue called RACE (Racing Alternative Careers for Equines) for the purpose of promoting the versatility of racehorses who can no longer compete on the racetrack.

RACE will host a special charity horse show on Saturday evening, starting after 4 p.m., a seven-class division called the Battle of the Breeds.

This division is open to registered Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds only and all proceeds from entries will be donated to the winning breed’s organization — ReRun or SPHO-NJ.

After the “Battle” there will be a charity BBQ-style buffet dinner served in the Pavilion with all proceeds benefiting the two organizations. The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

On Sunday, the competition will begin at 8 a.m. for the 15th annual National Standardbred Show. The SPHO-NJ is anticipating an entry of 60 or more Standardbreds, with opportunities to show in 45 different classes.

The Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey is the primary sponsor of the National Standardbred Horse Show, which is presented by SPHO-NJ with support from many owners, trainers, drivers and racing fans. Events are offered for active racehorses as well as retirees.

The Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of New Jersey is a non-profit organization founded to promote the Standardbred race horse as a pleasure riding and driving horse. The group offers an extensive show series, re-training clinics, ride/drives, parades and exhibitions to promote this versatile breed.

For more information, visit www.standardbredpleasurehorse.org.