Big Brown Jockey Rides for Ailing Son

Kent Desormeaux, the jockey who rode Big Brown to victory in the Kentucky Derby, wants his son to see him win the Preakness tomorrow—before his eyesight fails entirely. Nine-year-old Jacob suffers from a genetic disorder that took his hearing and is slowly compromising his vision, but that hasn't stopped him from exulting in his dad's success, writes USA Today.

"We give him all of the life experiences we possibly can," Jacob's mother says, "and let him see as much as he can while he can." There are other good reasons to win as well: the competitive spirit, the prize money, and, of course, the honor. "You're talking about never being forgotten," says Desormeaux. (More horse racing stories.)