Agriculture Secretary Charles M. Kuperus today
encouraged horseracing fans to visit Monmouth Park
on Saturday, September 20, for the first ever Jersey
Bred Festival. The festival will feature a full card
of races exclusively for New Jersey bred thoroughbreds.
”This inaugural festival is the perfect opportunity
to spend a day outside enjoying the excitement of
live racing and celebrating the important contributions
New Jersey’s equine industry makes to the Garden
State,” said Secretary Kuperus. “Our
horse farms and parks are among some of the most
beautiful open spaces in New Jersey. A successful
equine industry ensures these areas stay green and
that agriculture in the state remains diverse and
strong.”
Equine is the third largest sector of New Jersey
agriculture. According to the New Jersey Equine Industry
Survey issued in 1996, the most recent year for which
statistics are available:
• An estimated 81,000 acres across New Jersey
are used solely for equine-related purposes. An additional
86,000 acres are used for activities, such as hay
production, that support the industry.
• New Jersey is home to 49,000 horses and
ponies. Of that, 15,050 are the racing breeds, standardbreds
and thoroughbreds
• The total estimated value for all horses
and ponies is $682 million.
• The equine industry employs approximately
6,000 workers, with a total compensation of $112
million.
The racing card for Saturday’s festival will
feature three stakes races: The Friendly Lover Handicap,
six furlongs, for 3-year-olds and up; The William
A. Purdey Handicap, one mile and 70 yards, for fillies
and mares, and The Slady Castle Handicap, one mile
and 70 yards, for 3-year-olds and up.
The festival will also include a new owners seminar
sponsored by Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association,
display booths, a parade of breeds, pony rides, face
painting, autograph sessions, live music and a foot
race featuring local mascots. Festival goers will
receive a free tote bag with admission while supplies
last.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Post time is 12:55 p.m. Monmouth Park is located
on Route 36 in Oceanport. |