Keeneland and Churchill Downs Incorporated jointly announced today that the two industry icons have each committed $100,000 in contributions to the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. This contribution will enable the sponsorship of two Grayson-approved projects. For the initial two years, 2019 and 2020, the funds will sponsor Dr. Sue Stover’s Grayson-funded research project, “Training Programs for Prevention of Fetlock Injury.” Projects to be funded in 2021 and 2022 will be determined at a later date.
The project, undertaken by Dr. Stover at the University of California-Davis, seeks to develop a calibrated computational model incorporating training programs, track surface properties and the bone’s reparative processes that will predict sesamoid bone fractures in racehorses.
“Keeneland has been a proud supporter of Grayson for many years, and we appreciate the important work being done by the foundation,” said Bill Thomason, President and Chief Executive Officer of Keeneland. “Grayson’s process for selecting projects for funding and the expertise of members on the advisory committee are exemplary, and Grayson sets a standard that is emulated by so many other foundations. We are pleased to continue our support for research projects critical to the health and well-being of our horses.”
“Churchill Downs is committed to supporting initiatives that serve the best interests of horses and our sport, and Grayson’s work fits that mold,” said Bill Carstanjen, Churchill’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to partner with Grayson and Keeneland, industry leaders in equine wellness and research, and we look forward to seeing our contributions lead to advancements that help all horses.”
“These two iconic racing organizations continue to demonstrate their promotion of equine health and we are thankful for their support of Grayson’s efforts,” said Dell Hancock, Chairman of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation.
Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”) (Nasdaq: CHDN), headquartered in Louisville, Ky., is an industry leading racing, gaming and online entertainment company anchored by its iconic flagship event – the Kentucky Derby. CDI owns Twinspires.com, the largest legal online account wagering platform for horse racing in the U.S. It is also a leader in brick-and-mortar casino gaming with approximately 9,500 gaming positions in seven states. Derby City Gaming, the first historical racing machine (“HRM”) facility in Louisville, was opened in September 2018 with 900 HRM machines. Additional information about CDI can be found online at churchilldownsincorporated.com.
Keeneland is the world’s largest and most prominent Thoroughbred auction house and hosts world-class racing twice annually during its boutique spring and fall meetings. Keeneland’s Spring Meet ends today.
Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is traditionally the nation's leading source of private funding for equine medical research that benefits all breeds of horses. Since 1983, the foundation has provided more than $27.5 million to fund 366 projects at 44 universities in North America and overseas. Additional information about the foundation is available at grayson-jockeyclub.org.
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