"John has been a tremendous asset to the foundation and to the field of equine research," said Edward L. Bowen, president of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. "His devotion to equine health has been responsible for much of our progress in recent years and he richly deserves this honor."For information or reservations, contact Nancy Kelly at (212) 521-5305 or nkelly@jockeyclub.com, or Jenifer Van Deinse at (212) 521-5327 or jvandeinse@jockeyclub.com.
John Hettinger, long time chairman of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, will be honored at this year's annual Belmont Celebration June 10, the eve of the 137th running of the Belmont Stakes (gr. I). The event, hosted by the New York Racing Association and the Jockey Club, will be held in the Marquee Tent adjacent to the paddock at Belmont Park. Tickets are $275 and proceeds benefit Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, a leading private source of funding for equine medical research. Channel One Orchestra will provide the evening's entertainment. In 2000, Hettinger was honored with a Special Eclipse Award for his efforts on behalf of Thoroughbred rescue. Though he resigned as chairman in February, Hettinger was elected chairman emeritus by the board of directors and will remain a member of the board.