Inaugural Event Dedicated to Preserving Open Space in New Jersey Open Space Pace and Festival of Horses to raise awareness for horses and land preservation

September 6, 2012

  NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (September 6, 2012) – The Equine Science Center at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, has teamed-up with the Open Space Pace Committee to raise awareness of an issue which is critical to the quality of life in New Jersey: the preservation of open land. The Committee, with help from the Center, will host the inaugural Open Space Pace and Festival of Horses event on Saturday, September 29 from 9:30 am – 7:00 pm at Freehold Raceway in Freehold, NJ.

     “Residents of New Jersey recognize the time-honored and meaningful relationship they have had with horses for centuries, and the impact the equine industry has on the economy of the state, traditional agriculture, and the preservation and maintenance of open space,” said Dr. Karyn Malinowski, director, Equine Science Center. “Even in the most densely populated state in the nation, horses are in every county; they are one of the top attractions for residents. The goal for this event is to celebrate the horse and emphasize the quality of life in the Garden State.”

     A full day of events and activities is planned for the first Open Space Pace Festival, including the downtown “Parade of Horses,” leading to an opening ceremony at Freehold Raceway. Racing activities, beginning at 11:00 am, will include amateur group harness racing, a celebrity race, under saddle racing, performances by Medieval Times, and the featured Open Space Pace Race. Music by Nick Clemons, Dani Bochner, and the Eddie Testa Band will be featured throughout the day. The event will consist of educational programs, including displays by the Equine Science Center, community vendors, food and lots family fun!

     In addition, several sports celebrities will join in on the festivities. Joe Klecko, Ron Greschner, Nick Fotiu, Gerry Cooney and Keith Elias will interact with attendees and be available for autographs and photos. The event will conclude with an outdoor concert performed by South Johnny and the Asbury Jukes! The concert is scheduled to begin at 4:30 pm. Prime viewing tickets are available in advance for $15; visit OpenSpacePace.org or call (908) 839-6564. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the gate for $20 while they last.

    “We have planned something for everyone to help get our message out,” said Sam Landy, president, Open Space Pace Committee. “The Open Space Pace will strive to increase awareness, educate the public and stress the importance of open space in the Garden State. We believe this exciting and fun event will support our mission and continue to grow from year to year!”

    All proceeds from the Open Space Pace will benefit non-profit organizations involved in the equine industry and the preservation of open space. Presenting sponsors of the event are UMH Properties, Inc., and Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

   For more information about the Open Space Pace Festival of Horses, visit openspacepace.org.

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