Migliore will be cited for his outstanding performances as a Thoroughbred jockey and for his philanthropic work within the community. Starting his career in 1980, Migliore has developed an impressive resume winning more than 3,300 races. Nicknamed "the Mig," Migliore has a total career earnings of nearly $100 million.

Throughout his career, Migliore has participated in many of the racing world's charitable organizations, including recent involvement with the New York Thoroughbred Horseman's Associations' work with the Ronald McDonald House.

Other Munson Award recipients at the 23rd annual affair will be New Jersey Nets star point guard Jason Kidd; world welterweight boxing champion Vernon Forest; New York Met Joe McEwing; former Met now San Francisco Giant Edgardo Alfonso; and New York Yankees' star closer Mariano Rivera. New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Dave Anderson and NBC sportscaster Len Berman, the event's master of ceremonies, will each accept "Media Hero Awards."

The Thurman Munson Awards benefit honors the memory of the late New YorkYankee catcher who died tragically in 1979. Thurman's widow, Diana, has been involved with the dinner since its inception, assisting AHRC's many programs that enable people with disabilities to lead more productive lives.

Previous recipients of the Munson Award include: Yogi Berra, Joe Torre, Bobby Valentine, Al Leiter, Bernie Williams, Muhammad Ali, Arthur Ashe, Willie Mays, Walt Frazier, Earl Monroe, Willis Reed, Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez, Jorge Posada, and Wayne Chrebet.

The Association for the Help of Retarded Children is the largest organization of its kind, serving 11,000 children and adults who have mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries and other developmental disabilities.