The inaugural Bucks County Sheriff's Classic was held Wednesday at Parx Racing, drawing a significant crowd to celebrate and honor the men and women of law enforcement.
The event, which featured a designated race dedicated to the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement, culminated with Sheriff Fred Harran presenting the Sheriff’s Classic trophy to the winning horse, Tunisian Spring.
"Today was about more than just a great race; it was a visible, public thank you to every officer, deputy, and trooper who keeps our community safe," said Harran. "The support from the public and the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association was tremendous. It reinforces the deep appreciation our residents have for the dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of our office and all our local law enforcement partners."
Jeffrey Matty, Jr., executive director of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, emphasized the importance of the partnership.
"The PTHA and our membership are proud to host the first-ever Sheriff's Classic," said Matty. "This event is a fantastic way to honor our local heroes and simultaneously support a vital organization like the Police Athletic League, which builds positive relationships between police and our county's youth. Our racing community recognizes the great work Sheriff Harran and his team do day in and day out and just as he has our back, we have theirs.”
A key focus of the event was to raise awareness and critical funding for the newly formed Bucks County Sheriff's Office Police Athletic League (PAL). The PAL program is designed to create positive engagement between local youth and law enforcement through athletic activities.
"Every dollar raised today goes directly toward getting Bucks County kids - from Bristol to Quakertown - into positive, structured programs where they can build confidence and, most importantly, build trust with our deputies," added Harran. "The success of this first-ever Classic ensures that this will become an important annual tradition for Bucks County."
The Bucks County Sheriff's Office extends its gratitude to the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association for their partnership, and to all the community members who came out to show their support.
