Jockeys will not have to disclose financial terms of sponsorships under an agreement struck Oct. 25 between the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and the Jockeys' Guild. However, jockeys and exercise riders must wear approved safety vests as part of an emergency regulation that went into effect June 15.
The Guild had sought a temporary restraining order from Franklin, Ky., Circuit Court to block the sponsorship disclosure requirements of the emergency regulation. That temporary restraining order has been dismissed.
“I am pleased the Jockeys’ Guild has agreed to this timely and important settlement,” Lisa E. Underwood, executive director of the KHRC, said in a release. “The commission regards the Guild's input as essential in making certain that Kentucky’s signature industry has in place proper rules and regulations that will enhance the integrity and safety of this sport.”
The Guild had asserted that the disclosure requirements for jockey sponsorships had hindered negotiations with possible sponsors for the upcoming Breeders' Cup World Championships.
Terry Meyocks, national manager of the Jockeys’ Guild, said the agreement reached with the racing commission "provides a reasonable short-term solution to the issue. Hopefully we can build on this agreement and find common ground on other issues we face together.”
The KHRC worked with the Guild, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association to improve the jockey advertising regulation so the process would work more smoothly.
The remainder of the emergency regulation will continue to be enforced, including provisions that require approval of advertising by the racing stewards, jockeys, owners, and racing associations before advertising may be worn.
