Race nite boosts Bost programs

 

story and photos by Brittany Ransom
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It was “A Nite at the Races” at Golden Living in Fort Smith on Saturday evening (Oct. 15). The event, sponsored by the GFWC-Junior Civic League of Fort Smith, benefitted Bost, which provides services to children and adults with developmental disabilities.

The evening provided guests with an opportunity to bid on six horse races. Bids were placed prior to the start of races, which were displayed onscreen. After each race, bidders could collect their winnings, distributed in the form of play money. Earnings could be used to purchase additional chances to win the grand prize, a weekend getaway package to Hot Springs. The prize included a weekend stay at a condo on Lake Hamilton and six box seats to the horse races at Oaklawn.

Guests were provided with an event program that included a complete line-up for each race. After the odds were read, final bids were placed and the race began. Bidders cheered on the horses and anxiously watched as they crossed the finish line. Volunteers then cashed out the winnings and took new bets for the next race.

Maverick, from KTCS’s “The Breakfast Brothers” served as the event’s emcee.

“This is a wonderful, fun event which benefits a great cause,” said Maverick. “I enjoy being a part of this each year.”

In addition to the rounds of racing, the event offered many other games and prizes. Chances for a 50/50 drawing were sold throughout the evening. Wine lovers could also purchase a cork for $20 to win a bottle from the “Wall of Wines.” Wines ranged in value from $12 to $120.

More than 80 silent auctions items were also up for bid. The auction featured a wide variety of items including art, jewelry, wine and gift certificates to many area businesses.
Guests dined on classic racetrack food including barbeque, potato salad and coleslaw. Beer and wine were also served.

The southern rock group, Blue Collar Band, provided live entertainment before races and during the intermission.