For the second time in a year and a half, losing mount fees for jockeys at Finger Lakes have been increased.
Because certain milestones were met in an agreement reached in October, 2007, losing mount fees have been increased from a minimum of $55 to $70. The increase goes into effect immediately.
“We are very grateful for the cooperation of the board of the Finger Lakes HBPA and its president, Dave Brown,” said Terry Meyocks, national manager of the Jockeys’ Guild. “They stood up during difficult times and honored an agreement that was made in the fall of 2007. Herbie Rivera, the Guild’s regional manager, is also to be commended for his hard work on behalf of the Finger Lakes jockeys. The jockeys hope to work together with the horsemen on other issues facing racing in the area.”
The new scale follows increases in mount fees through legislation at California tracks and negotiated increases at Aqueduct, Belmont Park, Saratoga, Monmouth, Meadowlands, Atlantic City, Hawthorne, Arlington, Fairmount Park, Gulfstream Park, Calder, the Fair Grounds, Louisiana Downs, Evangeline Downs, Delta Downs, Tampa Bay Downs, Turf Paradise, Yavapai Downs, Indiana Downs, Hoosier Park, Delaware Park, Charles Town and Prairie Meadows. Jockeys at Philadelphia Park and Penn National have also received raises in their losing mount fees.
Negotiations are ongoing in other racing jurisdictions.