Duchossois to Get Award at Equine Gala
Richard L. Duchossois will receive the Ellen & Herbert Moelis Equine Savior Award for Philanthropy at Equine Advocates Tenth Annual Awards Dinner & Charity Auction on Thursday, August 4th. This will mark the Tenth Anniversary Celebration of the organization’s annual gala in Saratoga. Two time Emmy & Tony Award-winning actress, Bebe Newirth will present Mr. Duchossois with his award. The gala will be co-chaired by Saratoga’s own, Julie Bonacio and one of America’s great stars, actress and horsewoman, Bo Derek (“10”) who will present the Bo Derek Award of Merit to jockey Kent Desormeaux.
In the horse world, Dick Duchossois is best known as the Chairman of Arlington Park where the very first million dollar race, The Arlington Million, was run in 1981. However, he is equally known for his outstanding achievements in business and for his support of a wide range of worthy causes. Hall of Fame trainer, Ron McAnally, who trained the late great John Henry to win the inaugural running of the Arlington Million,” has this to say to his longtime friend on his award:
“It’s the champion in you that has given so many opportunities to people both in and out of racing. You’re a man of the highest moral character, generosity and class. You’re one in a million. Congratulations!”
Hall of Fame jockey and sports anchor, Gary Stevens also has nothing but the highest praise for Duchossois:
“Without the horses we wouldn’t have a Sport of Thoroughbred Racing. But these horses are not just athletes. They’re individual beings that need to be looked after when their racing careers are over. It takes a guy with his voice to make people realize that all horses, and not just race horses, should be given every chance to go on and live happy lives.”
All proceeds raised at the gala will directly benefit Equine Advocates Horse Rescue, Sanctuary and Humane Education Programs. The event will take place in the new wing of the Saratoga City Center on Broadway. Tickets are $250 per person; Front Tier tickets: $500. For more information, please call (518) 245-1599.