Arlington Park racing photo by Slooby. Wikipedia Commons public domain photo.
Nationwide, thoroughbred horse racing jockeys have agreed to donate one-mount fees on Saturday, September 5th, to a fund established by the Jockey’s Guild for injured jockey Michael Straight. Participating jockeys will ride with commemorative patches on their riding boots.
“We think it is important that those who love the sport of racing show support for Michael at this critical time,” said John Velazquez, chairman of the Jockey’s Guild. “We are in his corner.”
Apprentice jockey Michael Straight was critically hurt in the eighth race on August 26th at Arlington Park, in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Riding I’m No Gentleman, Michael Straight was tossed to the track after his horse clipped heels with another racehorse. Michael Straight suffered massive injuries to his head and spine, including four fractured vertebrae.
Matthew Straight, Michael Straight’s twin brother and also a jockey, will ride More Than Able in the fourth race at Arlington Park on Saturday, September 5th, in his brother’s honor. Michael Straight campaigned the racehorse successfully earlier in the 2009 racing season.
“Our family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of support,” Matthew Straight said. “We want to thank the Jockey’s Guild and our fellow riders for their generosity and support for Mike, as he continues to recover from his injuries.”
Comments
That's great. :-)
That's awesome! I hope they raise a lot of money!
I hope they raise a lot. What a great gesture.
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