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Newcastle Racecourse, in collaboration with Event Cinemas, are holding a special advanced screening of ‘A Horse Named Winx’ to raise funds for Racing Hearts Equine Assisted Therapies.
The premiere will take place 6pm, Wednesday September 4 at Event Cinemas Kotara, the day before its scheduled release to the public throughout the Newcastle and Hunter region.
The movie tells the inspirational story of a local horse named Winx, who was born in Jerry’s Plains at Coolmore Stud.
One of our greatest athletes, Winx became known as the ‘people’s horse’, an Australian icon who transcended her sport, joining the reams of fellow legends like Cathy Freeman and Sir Donald Bradman.
During her reign, huge crowds descended on racetracks across Australia to witness the Pharlap of the modern era pull off the impossible, 33 straight wins, a feat unlikely to ever be repeated. Winx final race was watched by millions worldwide.
A portion of the ticket sales, plus additional funds raised from a raffle held on the night, will go towards Racing Hearts Equine Assisted Therapies.
Founder of the charity, Lisa Coffey, explained the role Racing Hearts plays in the community and the difference the funds raised from the night will have for her organisation.
“Racing Hearts offers Equine Assisted Therapy programs to groups and individuals,” said Ms Coffey.
“We are the first organisation of its kind in Australia, and we offer retired racehorses a new lease on life through training and integration to equine assisted therapy programs for humans,”
“I can’t thank Newcastle Racecourse and Event Cinema’s enough for establishing this event and the opportunity to screen a film such a ‘A Horse Named Winx’ as part of the event,”
“The film is the perfect vehicle to help raise funds for the work that we do, as the story of Winx demonstrates the journey of many racehorses and the inspirational impact they can have on those who spend time around them.”
CEO of Newcastle Racecourse, Duane Dowell, also expressed his enthusiasm behind the venue’s involvement in the film premiere.
“The story of a ‘A Horse Named Winx’ means a lot to people involved in racing throughout our region and we hope to bring a lot more non-racing events to fruition for our patrons,” said Mr. Dowell.
“The premiere is a great opportunity for us to show support to a charity that has a positive impact on retired racehorses and on those in community who need the support that equine assisted therapies provide.”
