Two of Florida’s Thoroughbred racing tracks, Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park, have each donated $10,000 in support of the Ocala Initiative.

The Ocala Initiative is a project designed by the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation to advance equine medical research in Florida. Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park join Double Diamond Farm, the Florida Thoroughbred Owners’ and Breeders’ Association, Glen Hill Farm, Ocala Breeders’ Sales, Ocala Stud, and Payton Training Center as partners in the initiative.

“Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream are two of the bedrock Thoroughbred racetracks not just of Florida but throughout the U.S., so their commitment to research is really setting an example for stewardship of equine health and welfare,” said Garrett Gleeson, director of development and major gifts for Grayson. “We’re really excited to have both tracks on board, supporting work that’s so crucial to the health of all breeds of horses as well as the horse racing business.”

The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is working with organizations in the equine community throughout Florida to raise $100,000 and will then solicit matching funds from individuals