Improving race safety will be at the forefront of discussions when the Jockeys' Guild Assembly returns to Hollywood, Fla., Jan. 19-20, 2015.
The assembly for Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse members will be held at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, with a cocktail reception Sunday, Jan. 18. The assembly is taking place following the Eclipse Award ceremonies Jan. 17 at Gulfstream Park.
In light of the on-track death of apprentice Juan Saez in October as well as other serious on-track injuries, safety issues will be at the forefront of discussions, according to a Guild release. Also, an awards ceremony will honor top Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred jockeys as well as others who have made significant contributions to the Guild. Election of the 2015-16 board of directors and senate also will take place at the assembly.
"This assembly is the one time of year that all of us, both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred jockeys, have the opportunity to get together and discuss common issues and exchange ideas to improve conditions for jockeys," said Guild chairman John Velazquez in the release.
"The attendance and involvement of all of our members is essential in working to obtain benefits and improve safety conditions for all jockeys," added Quarter Horse rider G. R. Carter, vice chairman of the Guild.
"The Assembly is held in close proximity to both Gulfstream Park, which is conducting live Thoroughbred racing, and Hialeah, which is conducting live Quarter Horse racing," said Guild national manager Terry Meyocks.
