Written by: Desiree A. Farley / Photos: Jill Perkins
SARATOGA SPRINGS – Under the golden gaze of the setting sun, Saratoga’s equine heart pulsated to the rhythm of a different beat, one marked by the clinking of glasses and the sizzling of the grill. It’s the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s (TRF) BBQ at the Barn, a harmonious collision of equine passion and summertime BBQ aromas, epitomized the essence of Saratoga’s racing season like none other.
The picturesque evening unfolded beneath a constellation of twinkling garden lights, as though the stars themselves were eager to join the revelry. At the forefront was Kim Weir, Director of Donor Engagement, orchestrating the event with an artful finesse, sophistication, and a staunch commitment to a fierce amount of fun. Her infectious and magnanimous personality left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of attending.
And speaking of art, Saratoga’s artistic heart was captured by the presence of Frankie Flores, a maestro of Equestrian Art. Specializing in Equestrian Art, Jazz, Abstract, Fine Art, Urban and Pop Art, Early American Fine Art and Rare Prints, Flores’s piece was auctioned off like a prized thoroughbred.
If you haven’t met Dave from Sagamore Spirit Rye, he’s fabulously charming, and his barrel tasting station stood as a testament to the synergy between Saratoga and spirits. Go ahead Cheri Monaco, do indulge and savor a taste. Your unwavering passion for all that’s good, coupled with your dedication to our furry companions, has rightfully earned you a sip of Maryland’s most exquisite spirits!
As the adults savored their spirits, the younger crowd found joy on the back of “Upset,” a mini horse as friendly and well-trained as any border collie. Meanwhile, the air was filled with the sound of laughter and the thud of bean bags hitting wooden boards, as the BBQ tradition of Cornhole held court.
Hey, the gang from Benson’s Pet Center is here! Benson’s C.A.R.E.S. animal rescue groups and animal shelters pursue their mission without charging a fee to any party – a worthy tangential cause.
Volunteers, donning shirts emblazoned with the theme “Serve the Heard,” demonstrated the kind of dedication that fuels both TRF’s success and succulent BBQ. Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed, much like the culinary prowess of the cooks behind the Capital Region’s best BBQ, their talents put on display for all to enjoy.
Amidst the mingling and merriment, blueberry lemonade mojitos flowed like a refreshing summer stream—a concoction as invigorating as a stretch run to the finish line. Let’s not forget, the Saratoga Winery is renowned not just for their tasting flights and woodfire pizzas, but also for the multitude of stellar food and drink options they offer to all their cherished guests.
But it wasn’t all about revelry and refreshments. A moment of gratitude was shared for Congressman Paul Tonko, the driving force behind The Horseracing Integrity Act. His efforts to level the playing field and ensure the well-being of both humans and equine athletes were celebrated with every clink of a glass and every bite of BBQ.
The evening reached a crescendo with a chorus of auction bids. Godolphin Thoroughbred Farm tours, NY Yankees tickets, and a signed Woodford Reserve Bourbon Barrel—each item brought a rush of excitement akin to the thundering hooves of each horse receiving a lifetime of sanctuary thanks to TRF.
Yet, beyond the spirited camaraderie and the sumptuous spread of food and drink, the heart of the event beat for a greater cause: to celebrate 40 years of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s tireless efforts in rescuing horses and changing lives.
As the stars blinked above, and the BBQ smoke mingled with the warmth of human connection, the TRF BBQ at the Barn embodied the spirit of Saratoga’s racing season—a blend of heart-pounding races, heartfelt causes, and the joyful clangor of glasses raised in appreciation. It was a reminder that while the thoroughbreds may cross the finish line first, it’s the unity of purpose that truly defines a race worth running, and a retirement worth funding.
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