Visitors to Batavia Downs on Saturday got a chance to visit with some magnificent horses, and we don't mean the usual race horses that run around the harness track at the Downs, but the Budweiser Clydesdales.
Visitors had the option of getting their pictures taken with these large and finely groomed animals.
Among them was Red, an 11-year-old Clydesdale who travels 330 days a year, according to handler Andrew Lacrosse.
Not only are the horses used as intended -- they are considered workhorses -- they are also the brewery’s trademark.
While the company owns 130 horses in all, three traveling teams of 10 horses make their way throughout the United States to the delight of horse enthusiasts across the country.
The Clydesdales are recognized for the feathers around the horse's ankles and that trademark look is breed-specific. Although some Clydesdales can be taller, Red is approximately 18.3 hands in height (about 6’3'' tall) and weighs about 2,200 pounds. Measuring from toe to heel, the animal wears a size nine shoe, says Lacrosse. By way of comparison, the average horse wears a size three.
There was no cost to meet and be photographed with Red, however, the event was held in an effort to earn donations to support “Folds of Honor” and garner interest in horse racing. The organization provides scholarships to military members and their families, said Angelina Miconi, social media marketing manager for Batavia Downs.
Photos by Julia Ferrini.
