The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) is proud to announce the appointment of Craig Bandoroff and Ken Freirich to its Board of Directors. Their addition marks another step forward in PDJF's ongoing mission to support jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries.
Craig Bandoroff, founder of Denali Stud in Paris, Kentucky, and a former jockey, is a well-respected leader in the Thoroughbred industry. Although he has stepped back from the day-to-day operations of Denali, now handled by his son, Conrad, he continues to serve on the horsemen's advisory board of HISA and is on the Executive Committee of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
"I am very pleased to be asked to serve on the board of the PDJF," said Bandoroff. "It is an organization that means a lot to me for some obvious reasons. These riders gave everything to our benefit and for horse racing. I look forward to working with the board members and staff to move the organization forward and provide a critical need to permanently disabled riders."
Ken Freirich is a racehorse owner, international philanthropist, retired CEO/Entrepreneur, songwriter, drummer and founder of a music group and record label. He is a strategic advisor to the CEOs of many charitable organizations and sits on numerous boards. Ken is an active philanthropist in the Thoroughbred industry. He recently made a first of its kind, multiyear leadership gift to Breeders' Cup Charities to help inspire more significant short and long-term giving.
"I am honored and excited to join the PDJF Board," Freirich stated. "It's a wonderful organization that provides important assistance to permanently disabled jockeys and their families. I look forward to using my entrepreneurial background to provide meaningful, strategic insight and contributions to Joe Clabes, the Board and those we serve."
"We are thrilled to welcome Craig and Ken to the Board," said William J. Punk, Jr., Chairman of the PDJF Board. "Their knowledge, expertise and dedication to the sport and its participants will be instrumental as we continue to grow the support we provide for our fallen riders."
The PDJF supports former riders who have suffered life-altering injuries. With the addition of these new board members, the organization is poised to strengthen its fundraising efforts, enhance outreach, and advocate more effectively for the needs of these injured athletes.
