Stable to Stirrup's big fund-raiser on tonight

After being a Covid casualty last year, the standardbred Stable to Stirrup charitable trust is hosting its biggest fund-raiser of the year at Addington this Friday night.

A North Canterbury-based charitable trust that currently has 24 horses in work, Stable To Stirrup re-educates standardbreds to saddle and prepares them for their new Life After Racing.

"Sometimes we peak at more than 50 horses," says Trust Operations manager Kerry Helm, "and it takes a lot of resources.. our budget for the year is around $160,000 though much of that comes from funds, grants and donations."

Money raised on Friday will go towards grazing and feed costs as well as health care (dental work, farrier, worming etc) and using qualified equine professionals to evaluate and train horses in their care.

Friday's fund-raiser coincides with the Canterbury Classic Race Night at Addington, with a three-course dinner and drinks for $90 each or $850 for a table of ten in the Terror To Love lounge.

"So far we have 110 tickets sold, and we are always keen to sell more," says Helm.

Auctions and raffles will also be a big part of the evening.

A number of auctions are already on Trade Me - to see them click here

And there will also be auctions with prizes including :

Balloon rides over Methven

Five nights accommodation at The Peninsula, Mooloolaba in Queensland,

Bed and Breakfast in Queenstown for two nights

A TranzAlpine scenic rail trip with accommodation at the Awatea Sunset Lodge on the West Coast

Service fees to a number of stallions

a breaking-in service by Gavin Smith

People can bid for these on the night or leave bids here

"We are hoping to make up to $20,000 on the night and it's crucial to keeping us going," says Helm, "and we are very thankful to everyone who continues to support us."