Turfway Park hosting first ever International Catch A Riding Star challenge race | Events

FLORENCE, KY (FOX19) - Turfway Park will host the first ever International Catch A Riding Star challenge race for apprentice jockeys on Sat., March 23, as part of the premier afternoon of racing, Spiral Stakes day.

A team of licensed apprentice jockeys who have trained at racing schools overseas will be invited to compete in the race against riders from the Americas, including several from the North American Racing Academy (NARA), based at Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) in Lexington, Ky.  Awards will be given to both the winning rider and the team that earns the most points based on finishing positions.

Each year, NARA maintains a string of 15 to 20 off-the-track recycled Thoroughbred racehorses who serve as “equine mentors” for students enrolled in the school’s equine industry workforce programs.  Unlike previous races involving NARA at Turfway, the International Catch A Riding Star challenge race will be a wagering event, and both Turfway Park and the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (KYHBPA) have agreed to donate their shares of the pari-mutuel commissions on the race, known as takeout, to support NARA’s horses in their second careers.

Said BCTC-NARA executive director Remi Bellocq, “This will be a fun event that racing fans will enjoy while also supporting two good causes: education and equine aftercare.  Chris and I greatly rely on these wonderful horses to help us teach our students how to properly groom, ride, feed, bed and care for racehorses in a training barn or breeding farm environment.”  

The International Catch A Riding Star challenge race will be part of a 12-race card that includes the Spiral Stakes (G3) and Bourbonette Oaks (G3), respectively designated points races on the road to the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Kentucky Oaks (G1), and the Team Valor Rushaway Stakes (listed).  The card will be broadcast by TVG and additional coverage on selected races will be provided by Horse Racing Radio Network.