A star-studded party has been scheduled to raise funds for two charities that help disabled jockeys and others involved in horse racing.
The inaugural “Jockey for a Cause” charity event will take place July 18 at 6 p.m. (PDT) at the DeHaven Estate in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., following opening day races at nearby Del Mar Thoroughbred Club.
The party will be hosted by California horse owner Jeff DeHaven, who promises one of the best West Coast parties of the year. “Jockeys, trainers, celebrities, professional athletes from all sports, and Thoroughbred racing’s elite will be in attendance to support the event,” he said.
“There are some 2,000 jockeys in the United States, and they have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world,” added DeHaven. “Many of them have to work without adequate health insurance, life insurance or retirement fund, which puts a severe hardship on them and their families. I want this event to help make their lives easier.”
Proceeds will provide funding for two charities: The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) and the Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, which assists riders and others in the industry facing a financial crisis.
“Permanently disabled jockeys depend on the PDJF for financial assistance,” said Nancy LaSala, the organization's executive director. “The PDJF was established to provide long term assistance to jockeys who have suffered on-track catastrophic injuries. Since its inception in 2006, it has been, and continues to be, challenged to meet its financial goals to meet the day-to-day needs of these men and women. We have great hopes that ‘Jockey for a Cause’ will help provide security for our injured riders and are very appreciative to Jeff for his commitment to these athletes.”
“The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation helps not only jockeys, but many others in the industry in their time of need,” said executive director Nancy Kelly. “Trainers, grooms, exercise riders, hot walkers, farm workers, and front office personnel turn to us, and we want to be there to help. ‘Jockey for a Cause’ will help us help those valuable members of the industry.”
Terry Meyocks, national manager of the Jockeys’ Guild, says the Guild will be strong supporters of the event. “These are two very worthy charities, both committed to take care of jockeys in their time of need. I appreciate the fact that Jeff has stepped up to the plate to bring awareness to the plight of riders, and we at the Guild will do whatever we can to help make this a success.”
Tickets are available at www.pdjf.org. Further event and sponsorship information may be found at www.tjcfoundation.org. Questions about sponsorships may be directed to Jeff DeHaven, 805-469-6800 or jdpremae@gmail.com. The party will be produced by Amey Hoey of Aimstar Events. Contact: 619-318-9292 or amey@aimstarevents.com.