PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW MAILING ADDRESS IS KRTC P.O. BOX 189, PEWEE VALLEY, KY 40056 |
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| Highlights from the Chaplains and Ministry Team |
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KRTC is incredibly thankful for our generous donors, whose support has enabled the KRTC ministry to extend its services to more backstretch workers and horsemen than ever before. Your contributions are the driving force behind our mission, allowing us to hire a dedicated team of individuals committed to serving our communities with love and compassion.
Thanks to you, Chaplain Pavel has witnessed the positive impact of your support firsthand. In his new role as Senior Chaplain, he is overseeing and managing our mission by working with the chaplains at Turfway, Belterra Park, Ellis Park, and Kentucky Downs.
Your generosity and commitment to our mission is the backbone of the collaborative efforts of Chaplains Steve, Miguel, and Maykel. Your support fosters meaningful connections within the growing population and makes a tangible difference in the lives of those on the backside. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in this vital work.
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The Women’s and Children’s Ministry at the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy has flourished. Melanie, the Women’s Ministry Director, and Elena, the Children’s Ministry Director, have positively impacted many families through their dedicated work. Alongside their daily responsibilities, they have formed strong connections with women and children by visiting homes, school bus stops, the barns at Churchill Downs, and training facilities.
Your support is a big part of achieving our goals, which will depend on continued support from our donors to help facilitate our mission. |
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Chaplain Steve was so grateful the ministry brought Chaplain Maykel in to help him at Belterra during the beginning of the summer. Maykel, who serves as an assistant chaplain, has a heart for building relationships, and his commitment to sharing the gospel was a blessing to all. Maykel was tireless in seeking out those willing to listen and pray with him as he shares the hope of Christ. Both chaplains planted seeds of faith that they trust God will grow in His perfect timing.
As Belterra racetrack closed for the winter, Chaplains Steve and Maykel were filled with reflection and gratitude. They continued to serve faithfully during the last few weeks, which offered opportunities to connect and minister to those attending services. It was evident that these times together were deeply impactful, especially during the prayer time at the close of each service. Everyone held hands in a circle of fellowship and prayer following the final gatherings.
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Chaplain Steve and the Turfway and Belterra volunteers were thrilled to witness the generosity of support from Erlanger Baptist Church, who hosted a Vacation Bible School focused on raising funds for boots for needy horsemen. Inspired by their pastor's challenge, the children worked hard to raise over $4,500, surpassing the $3,000 goal. The children were so excited because, if they met their goal, the Pastors promised they would walk in horse manure. The service was full as the Pastors walked through the manure and taught everyone valuable lessons about love, sacrifice and serving others.
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Chaplain Steve is excited to share that he is building a team to support the clothing trailer, aiming to start offering clothing weekly by mid-November. Steve is contacting our generous donors and community members to assist in this vital ministry. Your support and involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. You can be a part of a compassionate team to help meet these essential needs. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our mission! |
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A group of backside workers started gathering for baseball behind the dorms at Turfway. Soon, they discovered a nearby church's baseball field, and what began as a small group of 6 grew to over 30 people playing and cheering one another on—men, women, and children. People even came from outside the track to join in the fellowship. The group included hot walkers, grooms, exercise riders, and some from the gate crew. These simple gatherings have fostered community, laughter, and friendship.
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| Turfway Park Christmas Dinner |
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Turfway's Christmas Party 2024 was a remarkable celebration that brought together over 400 guests, including more than 150 children. With the support of 40 churches, the event featured live music in English and Spanish, delicious food, and various giveaways, including many bicycles. A memorable highlight was a spontaneous nativity sketch performed by the children, adding a special touch to the festivities. The Gideon organization graciously distributed Bibles, and a message of hope was shared, concluding with a prayer of salvation. This year's party was the largest yet at Turfway, a testament to the impact of all the work from our volunteers and chaplains. The chaplaincy staff and volunteers were thrilled to see the joy in the children and families, and we thank God who works through us.
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Chaplain Pavel meets daily with workers to discuss their lives and Scripture, offering support and guidance. One worker, diagnosed with cancer that had spread, found hope and transformation through their talks. He is now almost cancer-free and has developed a deeper relationship with Jesus. Another case involved an exercise rider struggling to save his marriage. After meeting with Pavel and his wife, they committed to growing closer to God and now read Scriptures together. God is actively working in their lives.
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| Children's Ministry Director Elena |
The Children's Ministry at Churchill Down has thrived thanks to strong community support and dedicated volunteers from churches like Highview Baptist Southside. Their efforts helped the children get to the backside chapel, allowing them to engage in meaningful lessons. Donations have also enriched the program, providing meals and educational materials. Children actively learn about Biblical teachings. This initiative fosters spiritual growth and creates a supportive environment for young hearts. The faith community's ongoing support is essential for the ministry's continued success.
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Women's Ministry Director Melanie |
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Zumba: Melanie is happy to announce that Zumba classes have begun. She invites everyone on the backside to join the fun, exercise with the ladies, and talk about health and caring for your bodies. |
| Sewing Class: The ladies' sewing classes are twice a month. The group is a way to connect with each other. In November, they learned how to make Christmas stockings! |
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English speakers' Bible and Lunch: Melanie hosts English-speaking friends to have lunch once a month as they discuss topics from God's word together. |
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Churchill Downs Christmas Dinner | | |
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What better way to begin the holiday season than with our Christmas Dinner/Party at Churchill Downs? The KRTC staff enjoyed hosting 350 plus track workers from Churchill Downs, Trackside, and their families. There has already been so much positive feedback from the location/venue to the delicious food being remembered and celebrated as a community. Thanks to Churchill Downs for letting the backside community celebrate on Millionaire’s Row. But most importantly, thanks to all of you, our dedicated donors, who played a crucial role in making this event a success! --This event also helped us meet many track workers we did not know or have contact with. We ask for your prayers in the coming months so that we can continue building relationships with these individuals and their families to share Jesus and the hope that He brings to each one!
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We are excited to announce Kentucky Derby and Oaks winning jockey, Brian Hernandez Jr. is our Race for Grace keynote speaker
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| Meet KRTC Senior Chaplain Pavel Urruchi |
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Senior Chaplain Pavel is a native of Peru. His journey to faith began at a Christian retreat, where he felt a profound emotional impact and came to believe. It was Chaplain Daniel Hatfield who introduced him to KRTC. Pavel has a deep love for people and is dedicated to demonstrating the love of God through both his words and actions. His appreciation for others ensures that everyone he encounters feels important and valued. |
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“I had many wonderful experiences during my 32 years as a thoroughbred jockey but my work with the chaplaincy is decidedly more rewarding and fulfilling. Thank you sponsors, partners, and supporters from every corner of this ministry. God bless!”
- Hall of Fame Jockey, Pat Day
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KRTC BOARD OF DIRECTORS/OFFICERS
Officers Tony Estes, President Jim Tye, Vice President Polly Dunlavy, Secretary
Gene Snowden, Jr., Treasurer Directors |
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Gary Churchman Pete Cline Vanessa Parker Ron Presser Mike Ridge |
| Keith Sorrels Stacy Murphy Craig Wiley Dan Fick Bruce Eyre |
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Dear KRTC Friends and Family,
The year 2024 has come to a close, and it has been an incredible year for the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy! From recruiting new Chaplains to hosting successful events and gaining new supporters, this has been our best year yet. As we look to the future, I want to express my gratitude. First, let’s thank our Lord, who guides us in serving the horse racing industry. I also want to acknowledge the dedication of our KRTC family, who selflessly serve the estimated 7,000 individuals at the tracks we serve in the Kentucky’s horse racing community. Their commitment to the mission is inspiring. A heartfelt thanks goes to our volunteers, who play a crucial role in supporting our programs and events. Their willingness to help without expecting anything in return exemplifies true service. Lastly, I extend my appreciation to our financial supporters; your contributions are vital to sustaining our mission. Together, we’re making a difference!
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