Helzberg Diamonds Signs Jockey on Derby Favorite

KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Helzberg Diamonds is proud to announce a partnership with leading jockey, Javier Castellano, rider of Gemologist in the 2012 Kentucky Derby on May 5, 2012. Castellano will drive awareness for Helzberg's featured products in advance of the 138th Run for the Roses.

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"Our customers consider us their gemologist, so it was a natural fit since Javier is riding Gemologist in the 2012 Kentucky Derby," said Beryl Raff, chairman and CEO of Helzberg Diamonds. "We are thrilled to partner with Javier, who is an incredible athlete and a true success story. He has worked his way to the pinnacle of racing success after years of dedication and hard work."

In 2011, Castellano finished as one of the top five jockeys in the nation, with 11 Grade 1 victories, more than any other rider that year. Castellano is currently the leading jockey in major wins and earnings. He and Gemologist have won their last four races, including the Grade 1 Wood Memorial on April 7, 2012.

"I am very happy to be working with Helzberg Diamonds, especially as I ride Gemologist," Javier Castellano said. "Helzberg stands for exceptional quality and customer experience, two values that I have always aspired to in racing."  

Helzberg Diamonds invites fans to cheer on Castellano and Gemologist in the following ways:

• Share Helzberg's iconic "I Am Loved®" button with an exclusive Kentucky Derby design via Facebook and Twitter along with your favorite Kentucky Derby memory or story.
• Get exclusive interview footage and photos of Javier Castellano in advance of the Derby via Helzberg's Facebook and Twitter pages.
• View the fashionable jewelry available to match your Derby outfit for the race or a viewing party and see what Javier's wife will be wearing on race day at Helzberg's "Derby Things We Love" Pinterest board.
• Meet Javier at one of two Helzberg Diamond locations (specific details available at www.helzberg.com/derby).
  • Monday, April 30, 2012 — Garden State Plaza, One Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ
  • Tuesday, May 1, 2012 — Roosevelt Field Mall, 630 Old Country Road, Garden City, NY
• Use #JavierIsLoved to tweet in advance of the race to cheer on Javier and Gemologist and follow their experience through live tweets on race day.

About Helzberg Diamonds

Helzberg Diamonds®, a retail and online jewelry store focused on customer service, was founded in 1915 and has more than 230 stores nationwide, featuring a wide selection of fine jewelry, including diamond engagement rings and wedding rings, precious gems and watches. Helzberg Diamonds takes pride in its history of offering exceptional value, exclusive designs and timeless jewelry. Helzberg Diamonds is based in North Kansas City, Mo., and is part of the Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. (NYSE symbol BRK/B) family of companies. For the locations nearest you, call 1-800-HELZBERG (800-435-9237) or visit http://www.helzberg.com.

About Javier Castellano

Javier Castellano, rider of Gemologist (born October 23, 1977 in Maracaibo, Zulia State, Venezuela) is the son of a former jockey. He got his start in his native Venezuela in 1996 and moved to the United States in 1997. In 2004 he was the rider for Ghostzapper, the winner of Breeders' Cup Classic and the 2004 Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year. 

In 2006, Javier rode Bernardini, earning his first Triple Crown race victory in the G1 Preakness Stakes. Bernardini went on to be named champion 3-year-old of 2006 with additional wins in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, Withers, Jim Dandy Stakes and Travers Stakes.

Kentucky Derby and The Road to the Kentucky Derby are registered trademarks of Churchill Downs Incorporated.

SOURCE Helzberg Diamonds