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River Downs celebrates 'Jockeys Across America' A trifecta of events will be taking place at River Downs on Saturday for July 4. The first Saturday in July is traditionally dubbed "Jockeys Across America Day" and that title activity will be joined by a "BBQ and Blues" event in the track's paddock area. The Don MacBeth Memorial Jockey Fund is the beneficiary of "Jockeys Across America Day." It was set up by jockey Chris McCarron and his wife, Judy, along with comedian Tim Conway to assist injured riders. This is the 21st year that River Downs has participated. One of the unique features of the day will be the silent auction featuring some great catches for collectors. The potential sales-topper is a guitar autographed by Jimmy Buffet donated by Inside Media. Kentucky Derby (G1)-winning jockey Calvin Borel has donated autographed photos of him aboard Mine That Bird (Birdstone) and Preakness S. (G1) winner Rachael Alexandra (Medaglia d'Oro). He has also signed an official Kentucky Derby Program along with trainer Chip Woolley. In addition there are many tickets to sporting events, equine art, photography and gift certificates to local amusements and restaurants. The silent auction items will go on display at 1 p.m. (EDT) and the auction will end approximately 5 p.m. The jockeys will be available throughout the afternoon for photo opportunities and autograph sessions. The day will kick off with the annual jockey's footrace prior to the first race. In addition to Jockeys Across America festivities, award-winning Bluesman Sonny Moorman will head up a BBQ and Blues Fest featuring delicacies from the Rib City Grill. Moorman, who is back by popular request from the 2008 event, will perform in the paddock area from 4-7 p.m. For a real close up and personal visit with the jockeys, join them after the races at A.J.'s Roadhouse. The jocks will be guest bartenders and servers at A.J.'s located just east of River Downs on Kellogg Road. They'll pose for pictures or partner up with fans for some charitable Cornhole Bean Bag competition. As always, general parking and admission is free at River Downs and there are free Pony Rides in the paddock on Saturdays and Sundays. Live racing starts at 1:20 p.m. on Saturday. Fans wishing to make a tax-deductible donation to the Don MacBeth Fund may do so at Don MacBeth Memorial Jockey Fund, P.O. Box 18470, Encino, CA, 91416. For more information, contact Director of Publicity John Engelhardt at 513-354-8243 or johne@riverdowns.com.
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