John Velazquez is Jockey of the Week in more ways than one

In my recent blog, I talked about my friend, Jackie Holcomb, who is in a nursing home. She is a huge horse racing and jockey fan. Since my story broke, I can’t explain the amount of support, love, and donations to her cause from everyone. My phone has been blowing up with tweets and messages from Jackie’s family and the jockey colony.

It brought me tears of joy, and even the chills, when I received a message last night saying John Velazquez, recently named Jockey of the Week, donated to Jackie’s Go Fund Me account. I’ll admit I was half-asleep when I got the message and figured I’d look at it this morning. I am totally speechless. Velazquez donated $500. He also got jockeys together in the picture above to send to Jackie. From what I’ve been told, she won’t let the picture go. Big thank you, Johnny V!

In a recent conversation with Jackie’s brother, Reggie, I mentioned I may not be able to donate financially, but while I’m at Parx September 23 for the Pennsylvania Derby I will try to put a care package of goodies together for her. He asked how long I thought the ride was between the nursing home and Parx. I estimated 2 ½ hours, and Reggie said he and Jackie might come! I can’t wait. It’s going to be a great day.

Thank you all again for your love and support, and most importantly, thank you to everyone who has donated.

I will see you all soon for Riders Up!

By Becky Trettina