PJA reveals jockey cash fears over shutdown
The Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) claims jockeys could be affected financially if racing is shutdown for longer than a week.
Horse racing meetings in Britain were called off until at least Wednesday following an outbreak of equine flu which was initially found at the yard of trainer Donald McCain. The shutdown started on Thursday and is expected to last six days, although the situation could change should any new cases emerge following the British Horseracing Authority’s testing of thousands of horses across the country. There were no fresh cases reported on Saturday so it is hoped that racing will resume in midweek, although the PJA claims jockeys could be hurt in the pocket if the shutdown is extended. Chief executive Paul Struthers said: ‘Some jockeys will take this opportunity for a bit of a break – it is the time of year anyway some might be able to get away, particularly those on the Flat. ‘As we know, we’re going to be missing six days at least, and we’ll know more on Monday when more results are known, but for some jockeys the inability to earn any money will very quickly start becoming an issue.‘Some jockeys will be immune to it, but that will be a very small number. The majority will be vulnerable.’ He added: ‘Apprentices and conditionals, while they will lose their riding fees, they should at least be getting a wage. ‘But there will be a decent number of members that if the shutdown goes on for more than a week or two financial difficulties might not be far over the horizon. ‘What I must stress is that everyone is 100 per cent behind the BHA in this. No one has criticised how they have handled this – that is the first thing to say.’
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Yahagi has every faith Forever Young is ready for Classic battle
‘Perfect preparation’ for Kentucky Derby third heading into City Of Troy clash.
-
Exciting times as Brighterdaysahead starts off at Down Royal
‘One step at a time’ for Grade One-winning mare, who was expected to go chasing this season.
-
Joseph O’Brien expecting Classic show from ‘right type’ Troy
But Kieren Fallon sounding note of caution ahead of Del Mar blockbuster.
-
Grand Sefton not on the agenda for Minella Drama
Donald McCain happy to wait for other targets with Old Roan winner.
-
Eydon back on familiar ground at Newmarket this weekend
High-class five-year-old was fourth in the 2000 Guineas two years ago.
-
Charlie Appleby launching dual assault on Juvenile Turf
Aomori City and Al Qudra chasing Breeders’ Cup gold at Del Mar.
-
Wathnan juveniles all set for Breeders’ Cup battle
And Mick Appleby hunting race repeat, this time with Big Mojo.
-
‘It will be great if he could win’ – Bin Suroor rooting for City Of Troy
Godolphin trainer knows what it is like to come close to Breeders’ Cup Classic glory.
-
Hobson ‘can’t wait’ to unleash Fugitif at Cheltenham
Paddy Power Gold Cup again the aim for Prestbury Park fan.
-
O’Brien hoping positive tactics will curtail City Of Troy kickback fears
Breeders’ Cup Classic contender will be having his first race on dirt at Del Mar.