Graded stakes victories by First Dude, who finished second in the Preakness Stakes and is scheduled to make his next start in the $1 million Belmont Stakes June 5, will create support for equine research, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation President Edward L. Bowen announced May 26.

Donald Dizney, breeder and owner of First Dude, has pledged 1% of earnings from graded stakes victories to the foundation, traditionally the leading source of private funding for veterinary research to benefit the horse.

"I believe strongly in the work of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and am glad to support it in this way," said Dizney, a member of The Jockey Club and a national leader in racing who is based in Florida.

"Mr. Dizney is a member of our board of directors and has been a staunch supporter," said Bowen. "With this pledge he is not only making a concrete contribution but also helping bring attention to Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. We wish the best for First Dude and are proud to have him on our side