NetJets becomes first organization to sponsor every Kentucky Derby jockey
Woodbridge, NJ – May 02, 2008 - NetJets Inc. today announced that it will sponsor each jockey “running for the roses” at this year’s Kentucky Derby, held on Saturday, May 3, 2008. NetJets’ sponsorship marks an unprecedented moment in Kentucky Derby and Thoroughbred racing history.
As part of the NetJets’ sponsorship of the Kentucky Derby jockeys, a $200,000 donation will be made on behalf of the jockeys participating in the race to the NTRA Charities - Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. The fund benefits jockeys who have suffered disabilities during the course of their riding careers. NetJets will also make an additional $100,000 contribution to the fund.
“NetJets is honored to join in this landmark sponsorship. We respect these immensely talented athletes and this very worthy cause,” said Richard T. Santulli, Chairman and CEO, NetJets Inc. “We share the jockeys’ passion for the racetrack and the thrill of the finish line. hrough this sponsorship, we recognize their achievements and the opportunity to support them in their lives outside the racetrack as they face new challenges. I personally will be contributing $100,000 because I believe in the nobleness of this fund and its significant impact to the lives of the jockeys and their families.”
"We are pleased to join with NetJets in this wonderful endeavor to raise desperately needed funds to assist disabled jockeys in need," said Bill Casner, owner of WinStar Farm. "We are encouraged by the response from the jockeys, and would like to encourage the other owners with Kentucky Derby entrants to join in this worthy cause. To that end I will be donating $100,000 to the NTRA Charities Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund and will match any additional donations by owners up to $100,000. We wish every Kentucky Derby jockey the best of luck and a safe trip in Kentucky Derby 134."
"This sponsorship agreement is a notable achievement for racing with all segments of the industry working together to promote the sport," said Terry Meyocks, National Manager of the Jockeys' Guild. "I would like to thank NetJets, Bill Casner and the jockeys for their generous contributions and Churchill Downs as well as the owners for their efforts to bring this to fruition."
Currently there are 57 permanently disabled jockeys who rely on this fund for support.
“Through the generosity of NetJets, the Run for the Roses will not only be the greatest two minutes in sports, but a very special and public display of support for our disabled athletes,” said Peggy Hendershot, executive director of NTRA Charities. “NTRA Charities is grateful for NetJets’ leadership and support.”
This sponsorship would not have taken place without Churchill Downs’ great efforts in facilitating this historic opportunity for all parties to give back to the jockey community.
"Churchill Downs is excited to have NetJets, which has been a long-time supporter of Thoroughbred racing, now involved in America's greatest race through this unique sponsorship agreement," said Robert L. Evans, president and chief executive officer of Churchill Downs Incorporated, the parent company of Churchill Downs Racetrack. NetJets has already proven to be a great corporate partner, and through its donation to NTRA Charities - Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, NetJets is also proving itself to be a good corporate citizen. The Kentucky Derby family welcomes NetJets to this legendary event, and we look forward to seeing their name in the Winner's Circle through their support of our Kentucky Derby jockeys."
About NetJets Inc.
NetJets Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the worldwide leader in private aviation and provides the safest and most secure private aviation solutions. NetJets fractional aircraft ownership allows individuals and companies to buy a share of a private business jet at a fraction of the cost of whole aircraft ownership, and guarantees availability 365 days a year with just a few hours' notice. The NetJets programs worldwide offer the largest and most diversified fleet in private aviation, which includes 15 of the most popular business jets in the world. Access to the NetJets fleet is also available in the form of a short-term lease, sold on an all-inclusive, pre-paid basis in 25-hour increments, through an exclusive alliance with Marquis Jet Partners. NetJets Inc. also offers aircraft management, charter management, and on-demand charter services through its subsidiary, Executive Jet Management. More information on NetJets, the Marquis Jet Program, and Executive Jet Management is available at
www.netjets.com.
About Churchill Downs
Churchill Downs, the world's most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America's greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ Global Select Market: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs will conduct the 134th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2008. The track's 2008 Spring Meet runs from April 26 through July 6. Churchill Downs has hosted the Breeders' Cup World Championships a record six times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at
www.churchilldowns.com.
About Jockeys’ Guild
The Jockeys' Guild is an organization that was formed and is governed by Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse jockeys who ride throughout the United States. The organization represents jockeys on a national and local basis to address issues concerning the riders. The Jockeys' Guild also assists injured and disabled riders and their families. The Guild has served as an advocate for the jockeys since it was incorporated in 1940.
About NTRA Charities – Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund
Formed in 1999 as a subsidiary of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), NTRA Charities is a nonprofit, 501 (c) (3) public charity. NTRA Charities works to improve the communities that are home to Thoroughbred racing and to ensure the health and safety of the sport’s human and equine athletes. For more information visit NTRACharities.org.
Contacts:
Maryann Aarseth
Vice President, Corporate Communications
NetJets Inc.
732-326-3735
maarseth@netjets.com
Julie Koenig Loignon
Vice President, Communications
Churchill Downs/Churchill Downs Incorporated
502-636-4502
juliek@kyderby.com