The Jockeys' Guild today asked Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) to re-commit to annual contributions to the fund that pays for jockeys' benefits. The fund provides life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance and temporary disability benefits for active Jockeys' Guild members, as well as life insurance and aid to those jockeys who are permanently disabled.
Jockeys' Guild member jockeys join the Guild's national manager, Terry Meyocks (at podium in rear, with green tie), in asking Churchill Downs Inc. to recommit to financial support for the Guild. (Photo: Valerie Smith/Jockeys' Guild, Inc.)
In addition, the Guild unveiled details of a petition being signed by approximately 250 jockeys who have ridden at CDI properties within the past two years, asking CDI to reconsider its decision. The petition will be presented to CDI officials and board members next week.
"The Stronach Group and the New York Racing Association (NYRA) have just renewed their commitment to jockeys, and it's disappointing that CDI hasn't chosen to do the same," said Terry Meyocks, national manager of the Guild. "Tracks of all sizes contribute to the Guild. From the largest to the smallest, they all feel that helping jockeys is a worthy cause. We have been partners with CDI tracks for the better part of 40 years, and we just want that partnership to continue."
Meyocks said CDI representatives told him in August it was not renewing when its current agreement expires on December 31.
"We're talking about $330,000 total for the four racetracks to renew their commitment," said Meyocks. "Is the money that important to them or is it more important to do the right thing?"
Meyocks also called on other tracks that currently do not contribute to join Stronach, NYRA and others that have recently renewed their commitment.
Several disabled jockeys also reiterated the need for CDI to continue its contribution to the Guild.
Ron Turcotte, the legendary jockey who rode Secretariat to victory in the Triple Crown in 1973 and was seriously injured in 1978, said the Guild has played a crucial role in providing help to disabled jockeys. "Close cooperation between the Jockeys' Guild and the racing industry is vital and, I believe, beneficial to both sides," he said. "I also believe it is essential for the survival of racing."
Eibar Coa, winning jockey aboard the 2010 Breeders' Cup Sprint winner Big Drama, is recovering from severe injuries suffered earlier this year. "After my injury, I was concerned about my recovery, my family and my family's future," said Coa. "The Jockeys' Guild temporary disability benefits were made possible by contributions made by jockeys and tracks in the past, including the CDI tracks. I ask the leadership and board of CDI to renew its commitment to the Guild for our future insurance needs."
Jockeys' Guild, Inc., the organization representing professional jockeys in Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing in the United States, was founded in May 1940 and has approximately 950 members, including active, retired and disabled jockeys. More at www.jockeysguild.com.
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Contacts:
Jockeys' Guild, Inc.
859-523-5625
or
New West
Cary
B. Willis, 502-905-5860
