We can’t do it
without your help
Simply “Ring the Bell” by clicking on the image above to give a donation. There’s no amount too large or small as every little bit helps our mission.
Ring The Bell Program
In April of 2022, the Arkansas Thoroughbred Retirement and Rehabilitation Foundation Inc. brought an idea of trainer Ron Moquett to life. A bronze bell that reads “This bell rings for the love and respect of the Thoroughbred” was installed in the Oaklawn winner’s circle and winning owners, trainers, and jockeys were allowed to ring the bell with at least a $100 donation to the ATRRF.
Since that time, the program has grown leaps and bounds. Having the opportunity to ring the bell has become a sense of pride among the Oaklawn horsemen.
The Ring the Bell program has allowed the ATRRF to retire and rehome more than 60 Thoroughbreds over the last two years. The donations from Ring the Bell help pay for feed, hay, supplies, and veterinarian care of every horse that comes into the program.
The ATRRF was excited to expand the Ring The Bell program to Tampa Bay Downs in December 2023 and looks forward to helping other racetracks bring the program to life in the future.
Education
Every time the bell rings, racing fans learn about the importance of Thoroughbred Aftercare. The Oaklawn track announcer congratulates the winners and then explains to the public why they just heard the bell. This message reaches not just the fans on track, but thousands of other fans watching the races from across the country.
In addition, the ATRRF has a volunteer in the winner’s circle for every race to talk to the owners and trainers about the importance of Thoroughbred aftercare and why they should ring the bell. Between the races, this volunteer talks to the many fans who gather around the winner’s circle about aftercare and ways they can help. There are also several events throughout the Oaklawn Park race meet where board members and volunteers set up tables during the races to distribute information to horsemen and the public.
