We offer in-person previews the Tuesday prior to the sale. 11:00 am-4:00 pm by appointment only in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey. This preview is a private viewing for ½ an hour. To schedule your appointment please call 866-349-7378 or email us at joebodnar@bodnarsauction.com 

Press Release: 

Bodnar’s Auction Offers Unique Sale “From Track to Tee” featuring Horse racing and Golf collection on May 7!

Bodnar’s Auction is excited to announce an upcoming online only auction featuring 2 exceptional single-owner collections of horse racing and golf memorabilia. All lots start at $10.00 with no reserves, inviting bidders of all levels to participate in this thrilling, spirits-lifting sale.

The horse racing collection showcases a wealth of autographed items, track-used artifacts, jerseys, horse-related collectibles, and art. A distinguished emphasis is placed on items signed by legendary riders, with a notable concentration of pieces associated with Ron Turcotte and Kentucky Derby memorabilia. The owner of the collection was a regular on the circuit and attend the Kentucky Derby many times. All items in his collection were personally obtained from times spent at the track. He knew all the jockeys and owners.

Highlights of his collection include lot 79, A Kentucky Derby Framed Signed Display.  Dated May 2006, and Signed by Multiple Hall of Fame Jockeys and Triple Crown Winners which Ron Turcotte, Steve Cauthen, Larry Melancon, Calvin Borel, Jean Cruguet and More. The display contains Jockey Racing Jersey with #4, Seating Chart, Tickets, and more. Estimated at $300.00-$600.00.

Lot 100, A Vintage Lock & Co. London Velvet Riding Hat Signed by Two Olympic Equestrians – David and Karen O’Connor estimated at $200.00-$400.00,

There is a collection of lithographs and etching by Jenness Cortez all signed and some that are limited editions ranging from $50.00-$300.00 as well as a nice selection of antique horse racing photographs. His collection also includes horse related décor and collectibles from the various racing tracks in the northeast.

Horse racing has evolved from ancient roots to become a global sport known for speed, strategy, and enduring legends. Early civilizations raced horses for sport and ceremony, while the modern era brought standardized rules, formal tracks, and championship circuits. Over the decades, racing has produced iconic moments, electrifying crowds with the thunder of hooves, the precision of jockeys, and the artistry of track design. Memorabilia from this storied history—autographs, race-worn gear, and race-day artifacts—offers fans a tangible connection to the drama, tradition, and human stories that shape the sport today.

The second half of the sale features an outstanding collection of antique golf related items. This single-owner collection has been amassed over the past 50 years! His collection highlights an early era of the sport with wooden-shaft clubs, some maker signed and rare, reflecting the artistry and evolution of clubs through the decades.

Highlights of this collection include lot 172 an Antique Hickory Tom Morris St. Andrews Scotland Putter. It has an Insert Face, Brass Sole, and Does have round St. Andrews Mark with N.B. on the top of the shaft. This 150-year-old club is estimated at $2000.00-$4000.00.

Lot 214 An Antique Willie Norton Hickory Shaft Golf Club Set with Canvas Bag. Includes various clubs marked Deal NJ and one marked Seabright NJ, and has Various Cleek Markings. This set is estimated at $400.00-$600.00

Golf traces its origins to the 15th century, with early forms played on wind-swept links and improvised courses. The game evolved from simple clubs and balls to a sophisticated sport featuring standardized rules, equipment innovations, and global championships. Wooden-shaft clubs from the sport’s early era reflect the craft and technology of the time, offering a tactile link to the game’s pioneer generations. As golf grew into a professional and international endeavor, legends emerged, courses gained mythic status, and equipment design advanced dramatically. This auction’s golf collection preserves a rich tapestry of that heritage—early clubs, signed memorabilia, and significant artifacts that connect players, fans, and history.

In addition, the sale features a substantial assortment of personal clubs used by Tom Kite, including a piece used in the Masters, offering a rare glimpse into a Major champion’s gear. This collector’s pride and joy was the Tom Kite collection he acquired while working at the Eatontown Golf Center where he bought most of his game used collection.

Highlights of this part of the collection include lot 232 a display of Tom Kite Tournament Used and Signed Memorabilia. The display Includes a Tom Kite Putter Used at 1976 IVB Classic Philadelphia – 1st Pro Tournament Win, Signed Pro Set Autographed Card and Signed Titleist Golf Ball estimated at $5000.00-$10,000.00

Lot 239 A Tom Kite Personal Used Golf Club – The 1984 Masters Golfcraft Skokie Blade. The Club is Brass Bullseye Style Blade. Blade stamped "Skokie Golfcraft" estimated at $1200.0-$2400.00

Tom Kite stands among the most respected figures in American golf, noted for his precision, steadiness, and hallmark patience on the course. A tireless competitor, Kite’s career features multiple PGA Tour wins, a U.S. Open title, and a lasting impact on the game’s professional era. Renowned for his smooth swing and strategic approach, Kite also contributed to the sport beyond competition, influencing mentorship and course design perspectives. The inclusion of personal clubs and items used by Kite in this auction provides a rare, intimate window into the apparatus that accompanied a champion through pivotal moments in golf history.

Pre-Bidding in now happing at www.bodnarsauction.com with every lot opening at just $10.00 with no reserves, allowing broad participation and competitive excitement. You can preview the items in person by appointment only in Monmouth Junction, NJ on Tuesday May 5, 2026. This curated mix of autographs, track-used memorabilia, rare clubs, and personal items offers collectors and enthusiasts unique opportunities to own pieces with genuine provenance and storytelling power.