Reporter Bets on Horses to Help Homeless Veterans

Gene McLean isn't looking for a big payday at the racetrack. Every cent he wins goes straight to homeless veterans who need it most.

The veteran sports journalist launched his "Donation Play of the Day" challenge at Horseshoe Indy racetrack this spring. His mission is simple: bet on horses and donate 100% of his winnings to Homeless Veterans of Indianapolis.

McLean hasn't picked a first-place winner yet, but his horses keep finishing in the money. By betting "across the board" on second and third place finishes too, he's turned small wagers into $237.20 for veterans in need.

The challenge started with $10 bets in April and has grown to $25 per race. McLean says he'll keep increasing his wagers as momentum builds, aiming to match last year's impressive $1,500 donation total.

Sunny's Take

What makes this story shine isn't just the money raised. It's watching someone transform an everyday hobby into meaningful help for people who sacrificed for our country.

Horseshoe Indy's VP and General Manager Eric Halstrom champions this veterans organization, inspiring McLean to join the cause. Now every trip to the track carries extra purpose, turning the thrill of racing into tangible support for heroes rebuilding their lives.

McLean, who won Kentucky's Sportswriter of the Year in 1985, brings the same dedication to this charity project that defined his 40-plus year journalism career. He tracks every bet, shares results transparently with readers, and stays committed even when luck doesn't break his way.

The beauty of his approach means even "losing" days often add to the fund, since his across-the-board betting strategy pays out when horses finish second or third.

One horse, Captain Shagaf, delivered his biggest single-race win so far: a $150 payday in mid-July that pushed his total over $200. McLean celebrated not for himself, but for the veterans who would benefit.

As summer racing continues at Horseshoe Indy, McLean keeps making his picks and sharing his mission, proving that small acts of creativity can make a real difference for those who served.