An auction featuring 20 hand-crafted surfboards branded with the names of Lane's End stallions and individually signed by prominent jockeys raised almost $50,000 for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.
Created in partnership with Lexington ad agency Cornett and Chilli Surfboards in Torrance, Calif., the boards were individually designed to highlight the entire 2021 Lane's End stallion roster. Before being auctioned to the highest bidders, the boards displayed at Breeders' Cup World Championships partner hotels around Del Mar, as well as at Del Mar Racetrack, during this year's championship event.
Renowned jockeys John Velazquez, Mike Smith, Drayden Van Dyke, and Victor Espinoza were on hand at the event to help promote the one-of-a-kind surfboards. Anne Von Rosen, a former jockey and current PDJF beneficiary who suffered a catastrophic racing injury, also met with Bill Farish and family of Lane's End.
"Our sincere thanks to everyone who made this auction such a success," said Farish. "From our project partners to the bidders, we truly appreciate all the hard work and generosity that will ultimately benefit such a worthy cause."
Nancy LaSala, PDJF president, expressed her gratitude for the donation.
"Lane's End has been a remarkable partner," said LaSala. "Their commitment to supporting the often-forgotten jockeys who risk their lives for our entertainment and the business of horse racing is second-to-none and greatly appreciated."
