Officials of the Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation announced Gulfstream Park will host the organization's annual event honoring the winning jockey of the Kentucky Derby (gr. I).
The foundation's annual presentation of the Bill Hartack Memorial Award honors the memory and lifetime achievements of Hartack, one of only two jockeys to win the Kentucky Derby five times.
John Velazquez, the winning jockey aboard 2011 Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom , will receive the Bill Hartack Memorial Award. With family, friends, and industry colleagues at his side, Velazquez will be presented the award March 21 in the Gulfstream Park winner's circle following the running of the tenth and final race of the day, the Bill Hartack Memorial Race.
A reception honoring Velazquez will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Ten Palms American Kitchen and Stone Crab Parlor, located on the second floor of the club house. Contributions are welcome at the door to benefit Thoroughbred racing charities. Velazquez will sign ceremonial programs commemorating the 2011 Kentucky Derby victory.
Hartack Foundation board member Mike Stidham acknowledged the officials of Gulfstream Park for embracing the charitable mission and partnering with the Hartack organization to recognize Velazquez's outstanding 2011 Kentucky Derby ride.
"It is our privilege to work with Gulfstream Park to bring national attention to the racing industry and the extraordinarily talented and selfless Thoroughbred racing jockey,” said Stidham in a release. “John Velazquez, personifies skill, discipline, and grace. He is an outstanding role model and a shining star in the racing industry."
For additional information about the event or to learn more about the Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation contact Christine Gourgeot at (504) 293-2647 or cgourgeot@nocci.com.
