DON MACBETH DAY

Comedian Tim Conway co-founded the Don MacBeth Memorial Fund in 1987, starting it with a $5,000 fee he got for an appearance at what was then Canterbury Downs. The fund assists injured and disabled jockeys, helping them pay medical and living expenses. Tracks around the country hold an annual fundraiser to benefit the organization.

Where: Canterbury Park, Shakopee

When: Sunday, first post 1:30 p.m.

Activities: Canterbury's jockeys will sign autographs and participate in a footrace on the Canterbury track. Fans can sponsor jockeys, giving a set amount or a donation based on the rider's results in Sunday's races. There will be a silent auction, as well as sales of T-shirts, caps and raffle tickets for a trip to the 2011 Kentucky Derby. Donations also can be placed in collection boxes at the track.

About Don MacBeth: A top North American jockey in the 1970s and early '80s, MacBeth won the first Breeders' Cup Juvenile aboard Chief's Crown in 1984. He died of lung cancer in 1987 at age 37.

In addition: A spaghetti dinner and silent auction will be held July 19 to benefit Canterbury jockeys Scott Stevens, Paul Nolan and Don Proctor, who were injured in a racing accident last week. Tickets are $8 for the event, which will run from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at the Shakopee American Legion hall. Call Richard Grunder at 727-560-5231 for tickets.

RACHEL BLOUNT