Racing family plans 'Parkland Strong' fundraiser after school shooting

Carlo Vaccarezza, breeder and owner of 2012 Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Little Mike, along with sons Nick and Mike Vaccarezza, is organizing a fundraiser for victims’ families following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Feb. 14 shooting in Parkland, Fla., according to BloodHorse.

Nick, a senior, and Mike, a sophomore, both attend Marjory Stoneman Douglass High School, where 17 people were killed. Their perspectives have been changed on seeing family and friends since the loss of their classmates.

There was confusion among students due to an expectation of an upcoming drill. When Nick heard gunshots, he texted Mike and friends and they planned to meet near the softball field dugout before escaping.

“When I went back to Gulfstream, people were saying it was great to see me and I was telling them it was great to see them,” Nick told BloodHorse. 

The Parkland Strong fundraiser is set for Feb. 25, 2-9 p.m. at Frank and Dino’s, a restaurant Vaccarezza owns in Boca Raton, Fla. Complimentary food and drink will be provided to those who donate.

“Our goal is to raise $500,000,” Carlo Vaccarezza told BloodHorse. “I will cater the entire day and 100% of donations will go to the families.”

Checks can be written to His Place Ministries, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, or credit cards are accepted at Frank and Dino’s.

Nick mentioned Vaccarezza also held a fundraiser following Hurricane Harvey to help victims in Houston.

Nick has his own racehorse, Manhattan Project, who is entered in maiden claiming at Gulfstream Park Feb. 23. He plans to become a Thoroughbred trainer after attending the University of Kentucky following high school graduation.

“No amount of money can bring anyone back,” Nick said, “but this is something we can do to help.”