New York Race Track Chaplaincy has established the Nancy Kelly Volunteer Award, naming Kim Weir as its inaugural recipient, the organization announced Sunday.
Weir, who serves as Director of Strategic Growth for Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga and is an active Chaplaincy volunteer, will be honored at a luncheon on November 11 at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, NY. Longtime NYRA announcer Tom Durkin will serve as master of ceremonies.
The award will be presented annually to recognize outstanding volunteer contributions to the organization.
“As she did with every aspect of her life, Nancy Kelly set the gold standard for volunteerism at the Chaplaincy and we felt that this was an appropriate way to honor her memory and her legacy,” said Humberto Chávez, executive director and lead chaplain of the NYRTCA.
Kelly, who passed away on February 9, 2024 after a lengthy illness, served as both president and vice president of the NY Chaplaincy following her retirement from a distinguished career with The Jockey Club.
Chávez praised Weir’s selection as the award’s first recipient.
“Kim Weir is deeply involved with numerous other racing community activities but always finds time to help us in an extraordinary manner and this award recognizes that commitment,” he said.
Weir, a San Diego native, holds degrees from the University of Virginia and the College of William & Mary. She previously worked as director of donor engagement for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.
The establishment of this award continues the Chaplaincy’s tradition of recognizing those who contribute significantly to the racing community’s support systems.
