On one rainy afternoon, I paid particular attention to the Pletcher stable workers as they escorted runners to the paddock and, post-race, back to the barn--they were wet, covered in mud, working hard, and earning a living. They were key participants in setting a record for wins at the most challenging race meeting on earth. I was then drawn to all of the other workers who were just as wet, as muddy, and working as hard to earn a living. I wondered what could be done to make their lives better. Clearly, they are vital to the business of racing; those, in the Pletcher Stable, vital to his championship season.

That evening I read about the proposed bonanza that video lottery terminals represent for New York Racing Association and other New York tracks--more money for purses, the tracks, and the state. Larger purses will attract new owners and also represent more money for trainers, riders, and their agents. It seems very healthy for racing. However, with VLTs, could the day finally be here when the backstretch community is appropriately rewarded for its dedicated and important contribution to the business of racing?

In some of the more prominent racing jurisdictions, purses over the last few years have increased significantly. Simulcasting has become the savior of modern day racing. VLTs have already proven their place at Delaware Park and elsewhere. It's quite likely they will be productive partners when up and running in New York and other places. Certainly, the potential exists for purses to continue to escalate to extremely impressive levels. All things considered, it seems only fair and prudent to take a closer look at the backstretch community and how a percentage of this new source of income may improve the quality of their lives.

In the past, when jockey fees were negotiated, certainly no one could have imagined purses would achieve their current level. With VLT revenue resulting in even higher purses, it will create a handsome living for the jockey colony and jockey agents. But what about the backstretch community? With respect for every rider, current circumstances would seem to strengthen a case for an open dialogue to discuss a re-negotiation of fees with an emphasis on formally directing a fair portion to the grooms, hotwalkers, and others. Yes, riders put their lives on the line with every race and should be compensated fairly. Their risk is not to be taken lightly.

It's become increasingly evident, however, that exercise riders and others are also at risk when caring for 1,200-pound Thoroughbreds under all types of circumstances. Those who follow racing are familiar with the tragic events that have occurred on many a backstretch over the years. It's a beautiful but dangerous business--for backstretch workers the hours are long, the conditions often challenging, and the level of compensation inadequate.

Today, an opportunity exists for racing to consider an issue that deserves attention. Every owner, trainer, racing executive, and, yes, jockey and jockey agent--in their respective heart--knows the value of quality backstretch personnel and their challenge to earn a respectable living. Might the National Thoroughbred Racing Association initiate a national discussion, among all appropriate parties, to address the topic of including the men and women of the backstretch in a fee arrangement that could improve the quality of their lives while having a positive and lasting impact on the entire industry?

Everyone would like to experience the joy of the Pletcher Stable's championship season at Saratoga. Realistically, most won't. However, under a meaningful compensation arrangement, the pursuit of such a season will make every rainy day, every muddy pair of jeans, and every long hour well worth the effort. b