NYRA President and CEO, Charles Hayward, was proud to welcome back Major Chuck Kilbride and the U.S. Marine Corps as they returned to Aqueduct Race Track for the Annual Toys for Tots Campaign on December 4th and 5th. Mr. Hayward was named the 2010 Honorary Vice Chairman of the campaign and he welcomed Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, 2010 Chairman of the Toys for Tots campaign.
Mr. Hayward announced that NYRA would match ALL financial donations made by our owners and trainers to the Toys for Tots drive throughout the weekend. In the same spirit of giving, Richard Violette, President of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, announced that NYTHA would contribute $5000.
With New York's trainer, Gary Contessa, donating 10% of whatever purse money his horses earn, as well as owner Harold Lerner's contribution of $7500, we began the weekend with $20,000 for the Toys for Tots program which collects and distributes new, unwrapped toys to children in need during the holiday season.
"Collecting for Toys for Tots has long been a holiday tradition at Aqudeuct and we believe the Foundation's work is especially important during these uncertain economic times," said Mr. Hayward. He also expressed his appreciation to all of NYRA's fans who donate toys and make personal contributions to the U.S. Marine Corps for the Toys for Tots Foundation.
