On Sunday, April 8, the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) will air its first telethon live on the TVG Network in association with Betfair. America’s racing community will join together to support the dedicated efforts of the PDJF, which provides benefits each month to nearly 60 former riders who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries.

Superstar guest jockeys of today and yesterday will field calls from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Viewers can call 1-800-TVG-PDJF to say hello and make a donation to support the PDJF. Expected to participate are active Hall of Fame jockeys Mike Smith, John Velazquez and Javier Castellano, as well as retired Hall of Famers Pat Day, Chris McCarron and Ramon Dominguez. Plus renowned Quarter Horse jockeys Cody Jensen and Eddie Garcia.

The PDJF is a 501(c)(3) public charity that provides financial assistance to former jockeys who have suffered on-track injuries. Since its creation in 2006, nearly $9 million has been distributed for disabled jockeys, most of whom have sustained paralysis or brain injuries. With no guaranteed source of funding, the PDJF is 100% reliant on donations.

“We are excited to be working with the Jockeys’ Guild to raise money and awareness for this important cause,” said Kip Levin, CEO of TVG. “The recent death of Jose Flores is a tragic reminder of risks jockeys take each time someone gives them a leg up. We hope our telethon will help the PDJF continue its critical mission to provide care and resources for injured riders.”

“We appreciate the support of TVG and are excited to help raise funds for the PDJF through the telethon. Many jockeys will take part by answering the phones when fans call in to make a donation. The PDJF has no dedicated funding from the industry, so the telethon will help provide monthly monetary assistance to the riders who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries,” said Terry Meyocks, National Manager of the Jockeys’ Guild.

“On behalf of the PDJF Board of Directors, we are grateful to have this opportunity to put the needs of the PDJF recipients on a national stage,” said Nancy LaSala, President of the PDJF. “We want to thank those who have supported us in the past and continue to support us today, and we welcome the opportunity to work with all of our industry partners.”

A Press Release