The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) has announced a $1 million challenge pledge by Carl Pollard to launch its $20 million four year endowment campaign. Pollard, who breeds and races horses and formerly owned Hermitage Farm, in Goshen, Kentucky, has supported the TRF for a number of years.

“Carl Pollard’s challenge gift gives us confidence and credibility,” said TRF Director of External Affairs Diana Pikulski. “We are proud that someone of his stature believes in what we do and how we do it.”

In making his pledge, Pollard has challenged the TRF to raise $19 million over a four-year period. If it does, he will contribute $1 million. The pledge is designed with interim milestones and incentives. Proceeds from the endowment will be used primarily for horse care expenses. Owner and breeder Robert Evans has also joined with a four-year commitment of $250,000.

“Retired Thoroughbreds’ … aftercare is the responsibility of everyone involved in our sport,” Pollard said. “I wanted to come up with a new plan of attack to help raise the type of funds the TRF truly needs to improve upon its mission. … My giving is tiered to place an incentive on the TRF board, staff, and donors to raise an endowment which will ease some pressure on the annual giving