News Releases

Thursday, May 17, 2001Contact: Edward L. Bowen (859) 224-2850
McNairs Pledge Percentage of Congaree Winnings to Research

Janice and Robert McNair, owners of Stonerside Stable and of Preakness Stakes entry Congaree, announced today that one per cent of any winning purses from the remaining Triple Crown races will be earmarked for research. The pledge also includes next fall's Breeders' Cup.

Specifically, they have designated the contributions to be used toward finding answers and solutions to the wave of fetal and foal losses currently plaguing the horse industry.

The McNairs’ contributions will be made to the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, the leading source of private funding for equine research.

"We are pleased to make this provision to help horses and horse owners should we be fortunate enough to win any of these races," Robert McNair said. "It is vital, from both the humane and economic standpoints, that we solve the problem which is leading to the loss of so many foals."

"We appreciate the McNairs’ generosity and their sportsmanship," said Edward L. Bowen, president of Grayson-Jockey Club. "After all, as part owners of Maria's Mon, they have already pledged a contribution which was linked to the Kentucky Derby victory of the stallion's son, Monarchos."

John Oxley, owner of Monarchos, has pledged one per cent of earnings from any victories by that colt through the Triple Crown, and the partners who own Maria's Mon matched that specifically for the Derby. Stonerside is one-fourth owner of Maria's Mon.

Stonerside homebred Congaree, winner of the Wood Memorial and third-place finisher in the Derby, is listed as 5-2 second choice for Saturday's Preakness Stakes at Pimlico.