press releases

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Jockeys’ Guild Education Foundation Launches Program to Jumpstart Career Paths for Jockeys Through Education

Hall of Fame jockey Ramón Domínguez will serve as executive director

Lexington, KY, April 21, 2026 -The Lavin Family Foundation, Glen Hill Farm, and the Jockeys' Guild announce the establishment of the Jockeys' Guild Education Foundation (JGEF), a first-of-its-kind initiative dedicated entirely to the educational empowerment of professional jockeys. Through scholarships, personalized academic guidance, and practical skills training, JGEF will give jockeys the tools to build financial security and employment opportunities during and after their riding careers.

Jockeys face unique challenges that extend beyond the racetrack. Many begin their careers as young athletes from large families with limited financial resources, prioritizing training and competition over formal education. Jockeys’ irregular income, physical injuries, and language barriers, particularly for international riders from Latin America, compound their vulnerability. Many riders continue competing into their 50s and 60s not by choice, but because they have nowhere else to turn. JGEF has an official launch date of July1st. In the meantime, a survey will be circulated to jockeys and focus groups will be organized in coordination with the Guild’s regional managers to better understand the riders’ needs and educational goals.

Ramón Domínguez emphasized the importance of this program in assisting jockeys develop second careers. “I know firsthand what it means to face an uncertain future when a riding career ends,” stated Domínguez. “My injury changed everything for me overnight. JGEF exists so that jockeys can build the skills and credentials to write their own next chapter, whatever that looks like. I am honored to lead this foundation and deeply committed to its mission."

Hall of Fame jockey Domínguez will serve as the JGEF Executive Director. Board members of the JGEF are Craig Bernick, Rachel Jacobson, Johnny Velázquez, Jockeys’ Guild President Terry Meyocks and Jack Wolf. Jockeys’ Guild Vice President Mindy Coleman will lend her expertise, as will Jockeys’ Guild Accounts Manager Tina Linville. University professor, turf writer, and author Gabi Kuenzli will provide educational guidance.

"2026 marks the 60th year of horse ownership for Glen Hill Farm, and there is no more meaningful way to mark this milestone than by investing in the jockeys who have given so much to our sport. It is a perfect blend of our involvement in thoroughbred racing and the Lavin Family Foundation’s core belief in supporting education across underserved communities,” stated Craig Bernick, President of the Lavin Family Foundation and Glen Hill Farm. “JGEF is our

commitment to ensuring that riders have every opportunity to build a life of dignity, security, and fulfillment, on and off the track."

Funding & Sustainability

Initial funding for JGEF, covering setup, scholarships, and administrative costs, will be provided by the Lavin Family Foundation. JGEF operates with 501(c)(3) status pending under the Guild's infrastructure. Upon approval, JGEF will be positioned to accept tax-deductible contributions, enabling sustainable growth through future grants, donations, and industry partnerships.

"The Jockeys' Guild has always stood for the well-being of our riders, on the track and beyond it. JGEF is a natural extension of that mission, and we are proud to partner with the Lavin Family Foundation and Glen Hill Farm to make it a reality. Our riders deserve this investment,” stated Meyocks.

Please see http://jgef.org/ for the JGEF executive summary and more information.

About The Lavin Family Foundation

The Lavin Family Foundation is committed to expanding educational opportunities for underserved communities. Its portfolio of impact includes Enchanted Backpack https://www.enchantedbackpack.org/, CC's Wish List https://www.ccswishlist.org/, and educational initiatives at multiple universities and not-for-profit organizations, collectively impacting over 200,000 individuals.

About Glen Hill Farm

Glen Hill Farm is one of thoroughbred racing's most storied and respected operations, celebrating its 60th year of horse ownership in 2026. Glen Hill Farm has a decades-long history of commitment to jockey welfare, equine research, and industry philanthropy.

Media Contact:

Ramón Domínguez,

Phone: (513) 655-JGEF, 513-655-5433

Email: Ramon@JGEF.org