The Road To The Kentucky Derby is open for business as the qualifying prep races have began in earnest.

So, it seems a good time to talk about the pilots of the Derby hopefuls. More specifically, a charity that is near and dear to their hearts.

The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) is a public charity that provides financial assistance to former jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries.

Since its founding in 2006, the fund has disbursed nearly $11 million dollars to permanently disabled jockeys, most of whom have sustained paralysis or brain injuries.

Many of the jockeys the PDJF serve were injured while in their 20s and 30s and face decades of living with a disability.

They have lost their income and the opportunity to build a financial cushion sufficient to support them and their families.

The PDJF strives to reach out to everyone in the Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse industries, their business partners and the great fans of this sport for their support.  

The charities’ long-term goal is to create an endowment that will enable the fund to be self-sufficient.  

On-going financial support for the organization is necessary so that it can continue to assist these permanently disabled jockeys with their day-to-day needs.

There is a company called Saratoga Cool Beans Coffee that is doing their part to help the PDJF.

The on-line coffee shop is not only increasing awareness of the PDJF but offering financial support to the organization as well. 

Saratoga Cool Beans donates 10% of all sales to the PDJF.

With the Derby only a few months away why not pick up a bag of My Old Kentucky Home one of Saratoga Cool Beans most popular gourmet coffees.

As their website says: “Doesn’t matter if you’re an outrider or a desk jockey you will love this coffee.”

It’s worth checking out; http://www.saratogacoolbeans.com

Your Morning Cup Of Giddy-up !