Charities, Memorial to Honor Jerkens

As the racing community continues to remember the life of legendary trainer H. Allen Jerkens, the Jerkens family has announced that donations can be made in his honor to a pair of charities, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation and His Place Ministries. 

A lover of horses, Jerkens actively worked to ensure that his former equine athletes secured a safe and dignified retirement after their racing days were over. Likewise, the Thorougbred Retirement Foundation aims to find homes for Thoroughbreds no longer able to compete on the racetrack. 

“His horses were his life, and aside from his children and his family, they were the most important thing in his life,” said Shirley Jerkens, daughter-in-law of the iconic trainer. “He didn’t just forget about the horses [after their retirement]. He always was concerned about the horses and wanted to make sure they had a comfortable home.” 

Mrs. Jerkens added that ‘The Chief’ felt the same way about his employees–and on a broader level–any person in need. As such, donations directed to His Place Ministries will reflect the humanitarianism demonstrated throughout Jerkens’ lifetime.

“He thought that it was his duty to help those who couldn’t help themselves,” added Mrs. Jerkens.

For more information, His Place Ministries can be contacted by phone at 954-987-3041. The TRF can be reached via phone at 518-226-0028, or by visiting www.trfinc.org. 

A memorial service will be held for H. Allen Jerkens Tuesday at 11 a.m. ET in the Sport of Kings Room on Gulfstream Park’s second floor.