Famed as the world's toughest horse race, the Mongol Derby attracts adventurers every year and this year our very own Kilgravin Lodge chief Eion Kemp is contesting the 1,000km challenge along with 39 other riders from all around the world.
The event is organised by The Adventurists who have raised millions of dollars for charity since its creation and each participant makes a commitment to raise funds for their chosen charity. With Eion having an enormous involvement in the racing industry, it comes as little surprise that he is backing the Catwalk Trust who fund research that aims to fix paralysis following spinal cord injury.
"Spinal injury is something that we face each day in our industry," commented Eion. "Taking on the Mongol Derby is a massive challenge for me, but nothing compared to the daily challenges that people with spinal cord damage face."
A charity auction will be held at New Zealand Bloodstock to help raise funds. Hosted in the Karaka Garden Bar, the auction will follow on from Day One of theKaraka May Saleon 7 May with the first item auctioned off at 6.15pm.
Many organisations have gotten behind the cause and showed their support by donating items.
Windsor Park Stud and Rider Horse Group have provided a nomination to their exciting first season sire Mongolian Khan. His achievements on the track are extensive with Group 1 Derby wins on both sides of the Tasman while collecting awards such as Champion 3YO, Champion Stayer and Horse of the Year in New Zealand. Standing at a fee of $10,000, this nomination also comes with foetal insurance donated by NZB.
A nomination to the son of High Chaparral, Redwood, has also been donated courtesy of Westbury Stud who stand the international Group 1 winner. With his eldest crop now four-year-olds, he has already left a stakes winner in Romancer (NZ), runner up of the Group 1 New Zealand Derby Rising Red (NZ) and Australian Group 2 performer Swampland (NZ). Redwood also stands at a fee of $10,000 with the nomination inclusive of foetal insurance from NZB.
Coolmore Australia, home of leading sires Fastnet Rock and Pierro, have offered two nights luxury accommodation in their on-farm guest house with a farm tour and dinner to complete the experience.
If you're looking for panoramic views of the coast and a world ranked golf course to enjoy, then Kauri Cliffs round of golf for two people on their exclusive golf course will be one you won't want to miss.
For those living in the fast lane, Hampton Downs have provided a Supercar Fast Dash in a Lamborghini Huracan along with two Go Kart vouchers.
Along with the above items, and many more available on the night, guest speakers Brendan Lindsay and Henry Plumptre of Cambridge Stud will be in attendance for a Q & A session.
For a full list of items set to be auctioned off on the 7 May, and for more information about Eion Kemp's Mongol Derby adventure, visit facebook/MongolDerbyCatwalk.
If you are unable to attend the auction and wish to register a bid on an item, contact Eion Kemp on 027 455 7776.
