Alison, Chris and Katie Alford
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) and the Victorian Harness Racing Sports Club (VHRSC) are pleased to announce that $4106 was raised from last Friday night’s neurofibromatosis (NF) fundraising event at Tabcorp Park.
The formal dinner in the Toolern Room was just one of the activities planned to support the Alford family as Chris ‘Races for an NF Free Future’ throughout the month of May.
HRV CEO John Anderson said, “A sincere ‘thank you’ on behalf of the industry to everyone who has so far supported this worthy cause.
“Last week was a great example of what can be achieved when the harness racing community comes together for a common goal and I know the Alfords are incredibly humbled by the support they have received right throughout the state.”
Friday night’s event saw over 200 patrons in attendance who were ever-willing to support raffles and offer generous donations, plus a $1000 pledge from SEW-Eurodrive.
VHRSC President and SEW-Eurodrive Managing Director Rob Merola said, “Upon hearing of the Alford’s awareness campaign, the VHRSC quickly teamed up with HRV to do what we could to support Chris.
“The Victorian harness racing industry is incredibly tight-knit and we strive to look after our own. Congratulations to the Alford family for their efforts and we encourage anyone still wishing to contribute to visit www.nfaa.org.au.”
Heading into May with an aim to raise $10,000, the Alfords eclipsed that within a week and have now incredibly gone beyond $30,000.
Chris Alford so far has 22 wins while wearing his NF colours in May and with 33 drives booked in the coming days, there is every chance of more success for the cause.
Alison Alford said, “When Katie was diagnosed with NF, we very much had this overwhelming feeling of loneliness, that it was us versus the world.
“I can safely say that I don’t think we will ever feel lonely or isolated again. There’s standing room only on the Katie Alford Bus! It’s so fantastic to have so much support out there from within the industry.”
For more information on Neurofibromatosis (NF) or to pledge your support, visit www.nfaa.org.au.
Hi-res photos from last week’s function and Chris Alford’s NF colours are available upon request.
