Napravnik Joins New Vocations Day at the Races

Retired jockey Rosie Napravnik will return to Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots on January 3 for the sixth annual “New Vocations Day at the Races.” This event aims to support Thoroughbred aftercare initiatives and raise awareness about the adoption of retired racehorses.

Rosie Napravnik’s Role at the Event

Napravnik, a four-time local riding champion, will join the Fair Grounds’ broadcast team. She aims to promote success stories, provide adoption options, and inspire donations for Thoroughbred aftercare. “To my knowledge, there isn’t another racetrack in the country that dedicates an entire racing day to aftercare initiatives,” she noted.

History of New Vocations in Louisiana

In fall 2019, Napravnik collaborated with New Vocations, the largest racehorse adoption program in the U.S., to expand Thoroughbred aftercare in Louisiana. The Covington facility has seen tremendous success since its inception.

• Rosie Napravnik has retired from racing with a record of 1,878 wins.
• She made history as the first female rider to win the Kentucky Oaks in 2012.
• She retired in 2014 after winning the Breeders’ Cup Distaff with Untapable.

Support and Fundraising Initiatives

New Vocations has made it easier for stakeholders to donate. Contributions can be made through:

• The horsemen’s bookkeeper for Louisiana’s New Vocations chapter.
• Venmo @newvocations.
• The New Vocations website: newvocations.org/donate.

Anna Ford, the program director, expressed gratitude for the support from the Louisiana horse racing community. “The support has been instrumental to our success,” Ford stated. She emphasized the growing interest among racehorse owners to utilize aftercare services.

Event Highlights

During the event, fans can visit Napravnik at the television set on the third floor of the grandstand. With a suggested donation of $10 to New Vocations, fans can receive a personalized photo signed by Napravnik.

Jason Boulet, Fair Grounds Senior Director of Racing, praised Napravnik’s commitment. “These horses give so much on the track. It’s our chance to give back to them,” he said.

Attendees can expect a day filled with excitement, as Napravnik will also share her insights on race handicapping during broadcasts with Joe Kristufek and John G. Dooley. This initiative reinforces the essential need for Thoroughbred aftercare in Louisiana and the efforts to promote it through community engagement.