This Tuesday, July 19 at 9 pm EST, twelve of ZED RUN’s most notorious stable owners face-off in the Inaugural ZED RUN Most Wanted Invitational charity event – a nine-race tournament with a $15,000 prize pool.
The winner will receive a $4,000 donation for their chosen charity, and each remaining player’s charity receives a $1,000 donation.
In the lead-up to this week’s event we spoke to the participating stable owners about their charities, and making a positive difference.
East Coast Stables (ECS): Alzheimers NJ
“Alzheimers is a big part of my family tree, especially on my mothers side,” ECS says.
“Growing up, I watched this horrible disease take over at different ages. I attend local charity events for Alzheimers and will continue to support the fight however I can.”
Pony Plug: Little Wishes
“I started to volunteer at my local children's hospital (Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital) and it changed my perspective on life,” Pony Zook says. “Helping kids escape whatever they were going through, gave me a new purpose.”
“Extra Life is a fundraising program run by the Children’s Miracle Hospital Network. There is no less polarising cause or passion than wanting to help sick kids.”
Zodies Racing: The Ehlers-Danlos Society
“I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and one of the reasons I love ZED RUN is that play and earn models can empower people who can’t reliably work a regular job due to disability,” Zodies Racing says
“EDS is tragically under-diagnosed and many doctors are not properly educated to treat patients with it. I hope these funds can help spread awareness about the disease, helping patients connect with the care they need.
Diva’s Diamond Racing: Global Rights for Women
“I picked Global Rights for Women as my charity of choice,” Diva’s Diamond Racing says.
“Given the recent events in the United States, I felt that supporting women’s rights and empowerment against domestic violence is more important than ever.”
“The friendships I have made in the ZED community span the world, so I felt it fitting to select an international organisation.”
Mrs. Roid Rager: Headspace
“Do you remember what age you were when you first entered the workforce, started university, moved out of home, formed new relationships? Now put yourself back in those shoes, and add a pandemic on top of that,” Mrs. Roid Rager says.
“The impact of COVID-19 has declined young people's well-being, and when this age group contributes to our future success, survival, or even taking the metaverse to the next level, it's important we have the resources to help with these disruptions.”
“Headspace works with young people to provide support at crucial times in their lives - to get them back on track and strengthen their ability to manage their mental health in the future.”
Avon Fields Stables: Adopt a Pit Rescue
“I chose Adopt a Pit Rescue here in the Cincinnati and Dayton area,” Avon Fields says.
“During COVID - when shelters were shut down - I fostered eleven dogs over ten months. Charities that specialise in finding loving homes for animals often go overlooked. Adopt a Pit has found homes for almost 4,000 dogs since 2013.”
Galactic Farms: SADS Foundation
“I’m racing for the SADS foundation because my good friend (@ppcbz) recently lost his sister to SADS,” Galactic Farms says.
“I’m hoping my stable can bring home the win in support of him, his family, and everyone else affected by the tragedy of SADS.”
ZED Guru: Ronald McDonald House (Pittsburgh)
“I chose Ronald McDonald House because of the amazing work they do helping families stay close to their children receiving medical care” ZED Guru says.
“My family has a history of premature birth and I have seen first hand how stressful a long hospital stay can be.”
“I’m excited to help my local community in Pittsburgh, and hopefully alleviate some stress for someone going through a difficult time.”
DanShan: American Macular Degeneration Foundation
“I have early myopic macular degeneration and it's heartbreaking and life changing,” DanShan says. “I have always donated to their charities and feel the need to support less fortunate people who cannot afford to save their vision.”
Archibald Royal Family: Gary Sinise Foundation
“I chose the Gary Sinise Foundation because they dedicate time and resources to wounded veterans, first responders, and their families,” Archibald Royal Family says.
“The United States has been at war my entire adult life and I was privileged to serve in the Army in my youth. Sadly, we could spend every resource we have on supporting veterans, and it would not be enough.”
“This foundation is instrumental in providing relief for the heroes of these wars and their families, even for a short moment.”
Netti’s Neysayers: Cradles to Crayons
“Cradles to Crayons is one of my hometown charities here in Philadelphia,” Netti Neysayers says. “I work within poverty stricken neighbourhoods everyday and have seen the first hand neglect that some children receive.”
“This charity donates clothing, shoes, and books to schools. Too many times have I gone into someone's home and, unfortunately, the kids are without proper clothes.”
“I am hoping that any donation from this event will help those children in the most need.”
Cortez: Racing Hearts
“Racing Hearts offers Equine Therapy programs, giving retired racehorses a new lease on life through retraining and integration to help a range of people,” Cortez says.
“From those with disabilities to those who've suffered trauma. Racing Hearts provides horses that specialise in helping people.”
