Gulfstream Park, Tampa Bay Downs donate money for equine medical research

Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs are the latest to join the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation’s Ocala Initiative, each donating $10,000 in support of the cause.

The Ocala Initiative was designed by the Grayson-Jockey Club, traditionally the nation’s leading source of private funding for equine medical research, to advance that research in Florida. Gulfstream and Tampa Bay Downs join Double Diamond Farm, the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, Glen Hill Farm, Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co., Ocala Stud, and Payton Training Center as partners in the initiative.

“Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream are two of the bedrock Thoroughbred racetracks not just of Florida but throughout the U.S., so their commitment to research is really setting an example for stewardship of equine health and welfare,” Garrett Gleeson, director of development and major gifts for Grayson, said. “We’re really excited to have both tracks on board, supporting work that’s so crucial to the health of all breeds of horses as well as the horse-racing business.”

The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is working with equine organizations in the Florida community to raise $100,000 and will then solicit matching funds from individuals.