The Thoroughbred industry has certainly taken a beating over the past year: The controversial DQ of Maximum Security in the Kentucky Derby, numerous breakdowns at Santa Anita, recent indictments related to the sport–and now the COVID-19 virus.
COVID-19 has caused some tracks to end their meets early, and others to race with empty spectator stands. A few jockeys have taken a break, citing health concerns for their families. Jockey Javier Castellano, who arrived back in Miami after racing in New York, has tested positive for Covid-19. With the turmoil of bad news afflicting the sport, there are still stories of good news, if you know where to find them.
When Dani Dougherty, owner of Oakton Farm Stallions, heard that there was a baby that could benefit from the stallions on her farm, she not only arranged to offer the stallions, she spoke to friends who were glad to help as well. They agreed to hold an online Stallion Season Auction to help a little boy named Kit Kennedy.
“I am blessed to have amazing clients,” Dani admitted. “If that was my child and somebody had the resources to help, I would really appreciate it. I have the resources.”
Kit, an adorable baby boy with a sweet, disarming smile, has recently been found to have a rare genetic disorder, ZNF335. There are only 50 known cases in the world.
“ZNF335 hinders his brain from making new brain cells, which causes a numerous amount of neurological and other health issues,” Kit's mother, Cady, explained. “We've been told not to expect Kit to make it past his first birthday. We aren't going to accept that. We believe God has greater plans for Kit's life.”
Although Thoroughbred breeding season is already in full swing, those looking for an opportunity to obtain a great deal on a stallion cover can not only do that, but help a little boy as well. The online auction can be found on Facebook's page: Stallion Auction to Benefit Kit Kennedy. The auction is open for bids until Saturday, Apr. 4 at 5 p.m. ET. Bids start at only $500. For those not looking for a stallion season, but who would still like to help, information on how to donate can be found on the auction's Facebook page.
With your help, his family will be able to afford the medical equipment and treatments to ensure the greatest outcome possible for Kit.
We would like to thank the stallion's owners who made this benefit possible:
Oakton Farm Stallions: Rogueish (Into Mischief), Young Brian (Hard Spun), Finale (Scat Daddy), Backtalk (Smarty Jones), Big Drama (Montbrook), Matanzas Inlet (Kitalpha)
Equistar Training and Breeding (www.Pastallions.com): Uncle Vinny (Uncle Mo), Airoforce (Colonel John)
Solera Farm (www.solerafarm.com): Greatness (Mr. Prospector), Field Commission (Service Stripe)
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