The 2025 KRTC Race for Grace Gala and Auction
On April 28, 2025, over 500 attendees gathered to raise support for the mission of Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy. Senior Chaplain Pavel Urruchi emceed the evening, featuring an inspiring introduction by Kenny McPeek and a heartfelt interview with Oaks and Derby-winning jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., led by Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day. Hernandez shared how faith, accountability, and persistence shaped his career.
KRTC President Tony Estes honored the ministry’s impact and the dedication of chaplains and staff. Held at Churchill Downs' First Turn Club, the event offered stunning track views, a vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food. Generous supporters exceeded fundraising goals through auctions, adopting a chaplain, and the exhilarating "fastest two minutes in giving." A night of faith, fellowship, and racing community unity! |
|
|
Check the link here for more pictures at Race for Grace. You might see your generous self!!
|
|
|
You Made a Difference at the 2025 Race for Grace!
At the 2025 Race for Grace, your support as a sponsor truly made a difference. You provided the resources needed to host this event. Thanks to you, KRTC is able to physically and spiritually assist over 6,500 people who work directly with the horses in the backside of five Kentucky area racetracks and three training centers. Your contributions are invaluable, and without you, this event wouldn’t have been the success it was. |
|
|
Race for Grace was BLESSED by our Winning Circle sponsors |
| | |
|
RACE For Grace is grateful for our MANY Finish Line sponsors |
|
|
QAVA TV Jim and Pattie Dale Tye KY Equine Med Assoc Montgomery East-KIA Stores Alexis Harthill
BJB Restoration Brad & Stacey Ray Brook Ledge |
| Safe Harbor L & N Federal Credit Union Winchester Place Thoroughbreds Lynn Boshart - Turner Foundation Airdrie Stud Caldwell Tanks/Preload Pro Turf Suellen Holloway |
|
|
Race for Grace was a MASSIVE success thanks to our Down the Stretch sponsors |
|
|
Fasig-Tipton Diorio's/Arnolds Boats Taylor Made Stallions Godolphin Kentucky Downs |
| KTA/TOBA Shepherd Insurance
Southeast Christian Church Stored Valued Solutions |
|
|
KRTC can always count on these Call To Post sponsors |
|
|
Mike and Debora Redmon Jennifer & Howard Hill CJ Thoroughbreds |
|
James & Regina Fletcher Cherie DeVaux & David Ingordo Norton Healthcare |
|
|
God's grace is immense. These past few months, He has revealed that He is the one at work while you join Him in His mission. Even when feeling aimless, God is faithful, reminding you that He is at work in your life. You love and share the gospel's truth with those around you. You have the opportunity to do this wherever He places you! May He continue to meet you where you are and lead you into deeper dependence and reliance on Him as you serve Him. Melanie Case, Women's Director. KRTC |
Chaplain Pavel, Chaplain Maykel, Women's Ministry Director Melanie, Children's Ministry Director Elena, and Volunteer Coordinator Lana at Churchill Downs |
|
|
KRTC ministry begins each year as Chaplains Pavel and Maykel, alongside Women's Director Melanie and Children's Director Elena, support Trackside, Highpoint, and Skylight training centers. They pray for workers, provide essentials, and share food and coffee, serving the community with compassion. Praise God for this ministry! |
| |
|
| Gospel Outreach & Shop and Swap – January 17
The ministry’s shop and swap, led by Women's Ministry Director Melanie, provided clothing and toys for over 50 backside families. The event strengthened connections, helped moms in need, and created new relationships—all while sharing the gospel. |
|
|
| Couple's Dinner – Valentine's Week Nine couples gathered for the first-ever Valentine's dinner, addressing the growing need for marriage ministry. The evening included a catered meal, door prizes, childcare, and a biblical message on marriage. Pray for continued favor and creative ways to support couples in strengthening their relationships.
|
|
|
Trackside Outreach in partnership with the Jockey Club Safety Net
Shannon Kelly, (Jockey Club Safety Net) continues to bless KRTC and support horsemen. On April 14, they funded lunch and sweatshirts for 150 people at Trackside, strengthening connections. Melanie met 14 new ladies during the event. May God provide more opportunities to serve those working year-round at Trackside!
|
| |
|
|
Trackside Tuesdays – Welcome Back Event As Churchill’s barns reopened before Derby, reconnecting with familiar faces was a blessing. Many relationships remain strong, allowing the ministry to engage both returning and new workers. On April 21-22, a Welcome Back event reached 150 people at Churchill and 100 at Trackside, fostering unity, hospitality, and opportunities to share the gospel. |
|
|
Ladies Pampering Event
Ladies' Gathering – April 15, 2025 Forty women enjoyed a banquet-style dinner, gospel sharing, and relaxing activities like massages, foot baths, and Easter crafts. Sponsored by Jockey Club Safety Net and the Horse Racing Women's Association, the event fostered connections and faith. Four women expressed strong interest in discipleship, and one, deeply moved by foot washing, chose to follow Christ after attending Easter service.
|
| |
|
Vacation Bible School, Feb 26-28– "Following Jesus Changes Everything!" About 35 children explored key events in Jesus' life, including His call to Peter, walking on water, and the power of forgiveness. Testimonies from a strong group of men and women sparked curiosity and reflection. Many children were enthusiastic about the Bible lessons, actively participating with excitement. Miller Transportation facilitated pickups, allowing Elena to deepen connections during bus rides.
|
| |
|
|
Easter Service God blessed this year's Easter Service, where 150 attendees enjoyed dinner and worship. Pavel preached the gospel clearly, leading to a robust response. Six women came forward in prayer, and one, deeply moved, marked the day as her personal rebirth in Christ. "Renacimiento"—her rebirth in Christ. Praise the Lord for His work! |
| |
|
Turfway Park and Belterra Park Chaplains Steve and Maykel |
|
|
Turfway Park Monday Night Services have been going exceptionally well. Chaplain Steve is delighted that attendance increased noticeably after live worship was incorporated into the gatherings. A dedicated couple leads worship each week, playing guitar and setting a beautiful evening.
|
|
|
Bethany Lutheran Church Women's Derby Gathering – April 27 KRTC shared at Bethany Lutheran Church’s annual Derby-themed women’s event in Erlanger, Kentucky. Chaplain Steve highlighted the chaplaincy ministry’s challenges and blessings, sparking deep interest and moving testimonies. The women generously donated clothing and toiletries to support the ministry. Grateful for their kindness, KRTC is very grateful for the women at Bethany and is looking forward to future gatherings at Turfway and Belterra Park, celebrating God’s work through connection and compassion.
|
|
|
|
Belterra Opening Soon – Ministry in Motion
Belterra Park’s opening brings fresh opportunities for Chaplains Steve and Maykel to serve. With Turfway Park growing and Belterra welcoming 150 more individuals, their teamwork is vital. Maykel’s presence strengthens connections, leading to powerful testimonies of faith and renewal. As the season unfolds, lives will be changed, and ministry will flourish!
|
|
|
Chaplain Trailer Status
Winter flooding at Belterra severely damaged the chaplaincy trailer, impacting supplies and equipment. Mold treatment and repairs are underway, with a decision on repair or replacement expected within a month. As a vital ministry hub, it supports food distribution, counseling, Bible studies, and outreach. Prayers are greatly appreciated! If you're interested in helping, please let us know. |
| |
|
| Meet Ministry Coordinator Lana Finley at Churchill Downs
Welcome, Lana! A Louisville native, Lana grew up near Churchill Downs and became a Christian at a young age. After deepening her faith in college, she graduated from the University of Louisville (UofL) in May 2024 with a degree in music and a minor in entrepreneurship. She volunteered at Christ Chapel and now serves on the KRTC ministry team, where she organizes volunteers, meals, leads worship, and shares the gospel in Spanish.
|
|
|
12th Annual Give for Good Louisville Returns This September The Community Foundation of Louisville is proud to host the area’s biggest day of giving, set to return on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
Give for Good Louisville is more than just an online giving day. It's our community's way of showing up and showing out for each other by celebrating nonprofit organizations that provide essential resources to thousands across Kentucky and Southern Indiana daily. The Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy needs your support. Find out how by calling, texting or emailing Scott Neal, Director of Development and Communications at
502-457-0254 or scott@kychaplaincy.org |
|
|
“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
|
| |
|
KRTC BOARD OF DIRECTORS/OFFICERS Tony Estes - President Jim Tye Vice - President Gene Snowden, Jr. - Treasurer
Ron Presser - Secretary Rich Gimmel -Director Mike Ridge - Director
Keith Sorrels - Director Stacy Murphy - Director Dan Fick - Director
Bruce Eyre - Director Pat Dat - Past President & Ambassador Mike Redmon - Administrator |
|
|
Dear Friends, Making a Difference Together!
Your generosity fuels KRTC’s mission, supporting four amazing chaplains, dedicated Senior Chaplain Pavel, and a passionate team of directors. These leaders provide prayer, care, and support, uplifting the backside community through faith and service. Thanks to you, lives are being changed, hope is restored, and no one walks alone. What a powerful impact!
Please check our website, www.kychaplaincy.org, for more updates and events.
In His Service, |
Our Contact Information
*{{Organization Name}}*
*{{Organization Address}}*
*{{Organization Phone}}*
*{{Organization Website}}*
*{{Unsubscribe}}* |
|
|
|
