(Edited press release)
Hall of Fame jockey Kent Desormeaux will receive the inaugural Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation Award at a ceremony at the Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel March 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Hartack was one of only two jockeys to win the Kentucky Derby (gr. I) five times, and was the first rider to have purse earnings of $3 million in one season. The Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation serves to honor the racing legend and recognize his racing successors who have achieved victory and triumph in today's Thoroughbred racing industry.
Louisiana native Desormeaux, the jockey who piloted Big Brown to victory in last year’s Derby, will be honored for his achievements and victories in racing for more than two decades.
Larry King, host of CNN's "Larry King Live" and long-time friend of Hartack, will host the evening's event as Master of Ceremonies.
The award ceremony will precede the Louisiana Derby Weekend activities at Fair Grounds March 14.
A $500 charitable donation is required to attend the event and will go toward maintaining the vigor and vitality of Thoroughbred racing.
For more information about the Bill Hartack Charitable Foundation and Memorial Award, please contact Christine Gourgeot at (504) 293-2647.