(Edited press release)
The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, the Monmouth University Scholarship Fund, Monmouth Park Charities, and other charities of local interest will be the beneficiaries when Breeders’ Cup Ltd. hosts its 2007 Breeders’ Cup Charity Celebration Oct. 26.
This year’s venue is Monmouth University’s Wilson Hall at the Jersey Shore. Entertainment will be provided by the original “Jersey Boy,” Frankie Valli.
“I can’t think of a more appropriate performer for a Breeders’ Cup charity celebration taking place in New Jersey,” said Greg Avioli, president and chief executive officer of Breeders’ Cup Ltd. “We are excited that in addition to helping the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, which does so much to foster equine research, we can also help provide for our host, Monmouth University, and other charities important to the area.”
Originally a solo performer, Valli became a household name in the early 1960s after his first group, the Variatones and later the Four Lovers, became the Four Seasons in 1962. He also remained popular as a solo singer with hits such as “(You're Gonna) Hurt Yourself” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” His first solo No. 1 hit came in 1975 with “My Eyes Adored You.”
In 1990, Valli and the Four Seasons were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Additional information about the Breeders’ Cup Charity Celebration can be obtained by contacting Nancy Kelly at (212) 521-5305 or nkelly@jockeyclub.com, or Jenifer Van Deinse at (212) 521-5327 or jvandeinse@jockeyclub.com.