With the professionalism and quality of the jockeys racing thoroughbreds, it can be easy to forget how dangerous the sport is. Horses travel at a high rate of speed (somewhere around 35 mph) and jockeys play a balancing act on their backs while not always going in a predictable direction.

When something does go wrong, the results can be catastrophic. Jockeys can be trampled by horses behind them or simply the fall itself can cause serious injury. Jockeys, knowing all too well this fact, are particularly sensitive to taking care of their own.

If you enjoy racing as I do, one way to make sure the sport stays as safe as it can and that those that are injured get the very best care possible is to support jockey charities. An opportunity to do that comes Monday night after racing is over at Saratoga Race Course.

Top jockeys, including leading Spa rider John Velazquez, Javier Castellano and Ramon Dominguez will raise money for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund with no regard for potential embarrassment during a night of karaoke at Vapor nightclub at the nearby Saratoga Casino and Raceway (harness track). The festivities run from 6 to 11 p.m. and will be hosted by NYRA track announcer Tom Durkin.

The $100 admission gets you not only the karaoke event, but also a buffet dinner and dancing after the show.  A cash bar will available. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.pdjf.org  The only requirement is that you have to be at least 21 years old to attend.

So instead of visiting one of the many great eateries around town after enjoying a day of racing, why not put your winnings to great use by eating and supporting a terrific charity.