The Exceller Fund and Second Chance Ranch Come Together to
Assist Stallion E.P. Hillary (by Seattle Slew)
In Memory of Exceller’s and Seattle Slew’s Greatest Race
Media Contact: Hallie I. McEvoy (802)233-2415 or [email protected]
Photos Available Upon Request
December 27, 2018- Pittsboro, NC – E.P. Hillary, a stallion by Seattle Slew (the 1977 Triple Crown winner) out of Alden’s Juana by John Alden, is in the custody of Paula Turner of Pittsboro, NC. Unfortunately, twelve years ago the owner of ‘Slewy’ walked away from his charge and has not paid Paula for board, veterinarian, or farrier bills in all this time. Despite a massive heat stroke and continued related health complications that ended Paula’s horse training career eight years ago, she has continued to care for Slewy on her own. Recently, Hurricane Florence, followed in short order by Tropical Storm Michael, brought torrential rain and high winds through Paula’s North Carolina farm causing extensive damage to her barn, fencing, feed, equine and veterinary supplies, as well as her home.
Luckily for Paula, The Exceller Fund of Lexington, KY heard of her plight. “We knew we had to do something for Paula and Slewy right away,” stated Brian Zipse, The Exceller Fund President. “This was an urgent situation. And, what better time to help than on the 40th anniversary of one of the greatest races of all time, the 1978 Jockey Cup Gold Cup at Belmont Park where Exceller won the competition ahead of Seattle Slew, Great Contractor, and Affirmed (the 1978 Triple Crown victor). Although Exceller beat the immortal Seattle Slew, many horsemen consider it to be Seattle Slews’ greatest race.” To memorialize the race, The Exceller Fund was delighted to assist a son of Seattle Slew.
With Exceller Funds’ immediate donation to Paula to assist Slewy, Paula replaced her feed and supplies for the stallion for a couple of months. Paula needs, however, more help over the coming months and years with funds for Slewy. Although appeals were made to stallion rescues for help, not one of them stepped forward to assist her.
Now, Second Chance Ranch of Spokane, WA is stepping up with The Exceller Fund to raise additional funds for Paula and Slewy. Founded in 1999, Second Chance Ranch is a sanctuary for retired Thoroughbred race and sport horses. ‘Leading With Horses’ is a non-riding, psychotherapy based Equine Facilitated Learning and Coaching program for veterans, military families, youth at risk, people with PTSD, and the differently-abled. They provide solutions for social, emotional, and behavioral growth through direct intervention and community outreach. Their talented herd of Thoroughbred horses and other breeds offers a unique transformational learning opportunity. Second Chance Ranch also works with canines to facilitate the needs of their clients.
Katie Merwick of Second Chance Ranch, a 501(c)3 non-profit said, “We are happy to help Slewy by taking in donations to be passed 100% on to Paula. Donations are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Please just write Slewy or E.P. Hillary on the check. If donating through our website, note the money is to be directed to Slewy.” Checks and money orders may be sent to Second Chance Ranch, PO Box 19602, Spokane, Washington 99219, or you may call the office at (509) 443-7003. To donate on the website, please go to www.secondchanceranch.org.
The Exceller Fund was named in honor of the Thoroughbred racehorse, Exceller, born on May 12, 1973. Exceller is the only horse in history to best two Triple Crown winners, Seattle Slew and Affirmed, in one race. The 1978 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park in Elmont, NY, was a stunning showcase for this son of Vaguely Noble out of Too Bald by Bald Eagle. After being considered less than desirable as a sire in the U.S., Exceller was shipped to Sweden to continue his career as a stallion. There, on April 7, 1997, Exceller was slaughtered for the meat he would provide. The world-wide outcry at this inhumane act helped focus light on the need for aftercare for all racehorses. The Exceller Fund was created by a group of racing fans who wanted to make a positive difference after hearing the shocking news of how Exceller was killed.
The Exceller Fund’s mission of ‘Providing a Future Beyond the Finish Line’ goes well beyond the immediate rescue of a horse. For them, saving a horse is a lifetime commitment. With good care, equines can live into their late twenties or longer. The Exceller Fund continues to care for these extraordinary horses for as long as they need it. To donate or learn more about The Exceller Fund, please go to www.excellerfund.org. The mailing address is P.O. Box 4237, Lexington, KY 40544. For further information about The Exceller Fund, please e-mail [email protected].
Paula Turner is a horsewoman who achieved the equestrian ideal. While being raised in an orphanage, she read all the Walter Farley ‘Black Stallion’ books and hoped one day her equine dreams would come true. Paula made two horses into international stars. The first was in horse racing where she broke and trained Seattle Slew as a yearling and early two year-old using basic dressage techniques to balance his huge body.
The second horse Paula made was Jump Shot, known affectionately as Rabbit, whom she rode in the eventing world up to the top of international competition. Sold to Ralph Hill when she was severely injured by another horse, Jump Shot qualified for the 1980 Olympic Eventing Team.
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