Apex Body Moves the Scale After 3 High-Profile Incidents Left the Equestrian World Shattered

Aug 3, 2023 | 4:23 PM EDT

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The safety and well-being of jockeys have become a matter of concern in the equestrian community. Especially, after three recent incidents where fallen jockeys did not receive proper attention after spills. This recent update is making headlines in the community.

In response to these incidents, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) is taking proactive measures to address the issue. CEO Lisa Lazarus recently announced that they would survey racetrack leaders nationwide to develop long-term solutions.

Racing industry rallies for improved emergency protocols in the Equestrian community

According to Horse Racing Nation News, The recent incidents involving jockeys Abel Cedillo, John Velázquez, Andre Worrie, and Óscar Gómez raised crucial questions about the emergency protocols. As a result, HISA took a proactive approach to address the safety concerns and potential lapses in emergency response. CEO Lisa Lazarus stressed the importance of going beyond written procedures & ensuring that emergency medical personnel are appropriately trained to handle such situations effectively.

Stating, “My concern is that the emergency personnel are not specially trained. You can have the best policies and rules in the world, but the people in the vehicles don’t know what to do. You’re not going to get the outcome you want, and that’s something that we have to focus on.”

To rectify this, HISA sent a letter to all currently operational racetracks, requesting them to share their protocols for handling jockey injuries during races. This initiative seeks to identify gaps and areas for improvement in emergency responses.

A Call for Specific Initiatives

The mental and emotional well-being of jockeys emerged as another crucial aspect that needs urgent attention. At the mental health and wellness symposium, speakers, including CEO Lisa Lazarus, discussed the importance of addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by jockeys.

Furthermore, the tragic deaths of jockeys Avery Whisman & Alex Canchari brought to light the complex emotional demands jockeys experience daily. Whisman and Canchari’s deaths by suicide underscored the necessity for specific programs and initiatives aimed at supporting jockeys’ mental well-being. Lazarus emphasized, “We need to come up with specific programs and specific initiatives that are going to address these issues.” As part of their commitment to the jockey community, HISA is collaborating with a healthcare company

NovaCare offers low-cost medical examinations for riders. Additionally, they are spearheading the development of a comprehensive database to monitor and track jockeys’ head injuries. It will enable early intervention and care. Current and former riders, including Trevor McCarthy, Richard Migliore, & Eurico Rosa Da Silva, along with Jockeys’ Guild CEO Terry Meyocks, were active participants in the symposium.

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