Belmont Jockeys Raise $20k for PDJF

The Belmont Park-based jockeys raised $20,000 for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys' Fund by producing a video of themselves doing The Running Man Challenge.

The viral dance craze is widely attributed to two New Jersey teens and made popular by a pair of University of Maryland basketball players. The dance is performed to the '90s hit song “My Boo” by Ghost Town DJ.

The dancing jockeys wore silks representing Al Shaqab Racing, Coolmore America, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Glen Hill Farm, Godolphin, Michael and Libby Imperio, Robert LaPenta, Newtownanner Stud Farm, New York Racing Association Inc., William J. Punk and Philip DiLeo, Mike Repole, Martin S. Schwartz, Sheep Pond Partners, Sperando Racing Stable, St. Elias Stables, Ten Strike Racing, Teresa Viola Racing Stables, West Point Thoroughbreds, WinStar Farm and Zayat Stables. The video was prompted by a challenge from Bradley Weisbord.

“We're always up for something zany like this if it benefits the disabled riders,” said PDJF Board Member John Velazquez. “I want to thank the jockeys who danced and especially Mr. Weisbord and all the owners who accepted his challenge. The response was overwhelming; we actually had more owners wanting to participate than jockeys available.”

“Our jockeys take incredible risks pursuing their passion each and every time they get a leg up,” said Terry Finley, founder and president of West Point Thoroughbreds. “It's our responsibility as owners to help them by supporting PDJF initiatives so jockeys know we have their backs should they experience a life-altering disability.”

The PDJF is a 501(c)(3) charity that provides financial assistance to 61 former jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries. Founded in 2006, the PDJF has disbursed more than $7 million to permanently disabled jockeys, most of whom have sustained paralysis or traumatic brain injuries. The Fund is a cooperative effort among race tracks, jockeys, horsemen, owners, and racing fans. Visit www.pdjf.org for further information, and watch the video here.

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