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SDTR supporters corral for Kentucky Derby watch party

Ingrid Handle wins the award for best hat. TED PFIRRMANN PHOTOS
Ted Pfirrmann
May 11, 2024

The Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding center near Milton hosted its own version of the Kentucky Derby May 4, bringing together riders, families and volunteers for a day of joy and camaraderie.

The event, which aimed to raise funds for the center's equine therapy programs, featured a series of games, lighthearted competition and a horse auction. The horses were brought in one at a time wearing a number that represented an actual Kentucky Derby post position number, and that number was auctioned off. Once the Kentucky Derby race was run, the respective guest who owned the winning horse’s number received 25% of the money collected on all the horses.

These gentle giants of the DTRC center showcased their grace and athleticism, delighting spectators. Beyond the excitement of the race, the event served as a testament to the center's dedication to improving the lives of individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges through the healing power of horses.

 

The crowd anxiously watched the final moments of the Kentucky Derby.
Mark Gillespie stands behind the bourbon station, ready to help.
Iza Wulf mans the take-a-chance raffle station.
Marcia Cummings plays the lawn derby game as Mike Summerlin works the station.
Lori Chaikin, board member of the SDTR, works the merchandise table.
Working the bar sponsored by Atlantic Liquors are (l-r) Jennifer Swingle and Fiona McMahon.
Linda Berdine, chair of the Kentucky Derby Day event and SDTR board member, serves as emcee for the first half of the night.
Jo Allegro-Smith, SDTR executive director, addresses the crowd.
Sen. Dave Wilson serves as the auctioneer and emcee of the Parade of Horses auction. In front is Stan Vonasek.
Gulliver’s Travels, or Gully for short, is led into the ring by Kelly Boyer, program director at SDTR.
Richard Thibodeau wins the award for the Crazy Pants.
Mallory Metzner and Sussex County Councilman Mark Schaeffer pose for a photo.
Linda Berdine, SDTR board member, and Mallory Metzner are all smiles.
Dov Levy, center, wins the Parade of Horses and graciously donates the money back to the Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding center. Shown with him are Mallory Metzner, left, and Linda Berdine, board member of the SDTR.
Elma and Don Levy are all smiles at the end of the night.

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