LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks-winning trainer kenny McPeek is partnering with Bluegrass Distillers to release a commemorative bourbon bottle, with proceeds benefiting injured jockey Brian Hernandez and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.
hernandez was seriously injured in a fall at Churchill Downs this past weekend, sustaining injuries to his ribs, liver, and lungs. He is expected to be out of work for approximately three months while recovering.
“Brian is an extremely talented rider, somebody that we depend on and, like I said, a big part of what we do,” McPeek said. McPeek and Hernandez have collaborated for over a decade, achieving more than 35 graded stakes wins together.
The bourbon, a 9-year-old blend, will honor McPeek’s 2024 Kentucky Oaks winner, Thorpedo Anna. McPeek anticipates strong collector interest in the bottles.
A portion of the proceeds will also support the Permanently disabled Jockeys Fund, which currently assists 49 members. The fund previously provided support to Ron Turcotte, Secretariat’s jockey, who passed away in August.
“Horse racing has the highest rate of concussion of any sport, even more than football,” explained Joe Clabes, Executive Director of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. “Falling from a horse that’s standing still can cause injury, but racing falls happen at speeds of 35 to 45 miles an hour.” He added, “This is pretty much in character for Kenny to do something to help others, and so it’s great to see.”
The release date for the Thorpedo Anna commemorative bourbon has not yet been announced.
Those interested in donating directly to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys fund can find more facts at https://pdjf.org/.