Silver Garden of Southfield hosted the second annual Berkley Education Foundation Off to the Races fundraiser Saturday night, and Fun won, followed by Lively, with Camaraderie a close third.

Conceived by foundation Director Sue McAlpine after she attended a similar event at the Palace of Auburn Hills, the event aimed to raise money for the Berkley School District. Tickets cost $30 each and included dinner; the evening also included a silent auction, cash bar and prerecorded horse races.

The races were called – as though they were live – by Frank Dellorso of Pennsylvania-based Post Time Racing.

Some people wore large hats, reminiscent of those famously worn at the Kentucky Derby, as they cheered for the race horses. Sponsors were able to pay $25 to name horses in each race — or, an entire race of 10 ponies went for $250.

Last year’s inaugural races raised almost $15,000, McAlpine said.

“We began with the expectation of generating awareness of the foundation, but with that much money, we were able to fund minigrants for teachers," she said. "And, we saw a great, helpful effort from the communities, businesses and families.”

Word traveled through many channels, including on Facebook. First-timer Maureen Muraski was inspired to travel from Ada to master the idea for her own children's school, St. Thomas the Apostle in Grand Rapids.

“I sponsored a horse for tonight, and Sue named it ‘I Came A Long Way’ after my drive in,” Muraski said, with a laugh.

Return attendees came because they had so much fun last year, knew the funds go to a good cause and liked the prizes, which included jewelry, sports paraphernalia, baskets of educational games or books, pet items, skin care products, clothes, services and more.

Berkley school administrators, board members and Superintendent Mike Simeck mingled and sat at several tables in support of the innovative concept to raise funds. They praised the great work by co-chairs McAlpine and board Trustee Mary Jo Israel.

School board Trustee Randy Travis and his wife, Mary, even spent their 28th wedding anniversary at the races — probably because they know a winner when they see it.