Equestrian Conference to Focus on Jockey Injuries and Mental Health

Horse racing is a thrilling sport mainly because the risk of life-threatening injuries always hangs in the background. Over the years, the sport has left many jockeys with severe injuries, both physical and mental. In response to this growing concern, the equestrian world has taken a bold step in the right direction.

The International Conference for the Health, Safety, and Welfare of Jockeys will address many of the issues plaguing one of America’s favorite sports. This year, the ICHSWJ has been organized on September 28 at Paris’ Auteuil Racecourse. The organizers chose the time well, as this weekend marks a very special event in the equestrian calendar.

Simultaneous equestrian events during the same weekend

The ICHSWJ is placed right in the middle of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend. That means several equestrian associations from around the world will be in Paris for the event and attend the conference. At the same time, the 57th International Conference of Horseracing Authorities will also be taking place in Paris. This convergence of events creates a unique opportunity for collaboration and sharing of knowledge among equestrian professionals.

The organizers will also live-stream the conference so that any equestrian association that could not be present can watch and derive value from it. According to horsetalk.co.nz Dr. Jerry Hill, Chief Medical Adviser of the British Horseracing Authority, and Dr. Jennifer Pugh, Chief Medical Officer at the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, will chair the first presentation.

The two esteemed equine medical professionals will discuss their findings on the study into the impact of concussion. They will also analyze a Consensus Statement on a topic related to how prone jockeys are to concussions. Finally, they will also instruct on proper concussion management techniques within the limited resources across all racing jurisdictions. The following session will shine a light on the impact and prevention of spinal cord injuries in the equestrian world. Daloni Lucas will reveal key knowledge from her research at the Centre for Health, and Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport at the University of Bath. While her session will be just as illuminating, the ICHSWJ has saved the best for last.

Third session to shine the spotlight on mental health

The third and final session will provide an in-depth analysis of the value of mental health among equestrian riders. The jockeys need a certain level of psychological fitness to perform well and handle the pressures and risks associated with their sport. This presentation will also cover alternative mental health strategies and touch upon the various factors that impact them. Renowned Professor Duncan Law, Sports Psychologists Karen Lo, and Dr. Ciara Losty will make up the panel for this discussion.

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Darragh O’Loughlin, the Conference Chairman, summarized the objective of the discussions, saying, “as we all strive to expand our understanding of these topics. Improving jockey health, safety, and welfare is vital for our sport.” The conference will also hear from jockeys like Tom Scudamore, who have been victims of equestrian sport injuries. This unique conference will surely bring about greater awareness and create a positive impact on the well-being of jockeys.

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