Jockeys Guild News and Articles

MCCLAIN HONORED AS ONE OF TOP 25 INFLUENTIAL BLACK WOMEN IN BUSINESS BY THE NETWORK JOURNAL

 From NYRA Communications Department

“It is a wonderful honor to be named to this list by The Network Journal,” said McClain, who holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration (’93) and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Brown University (’86). “The list includes many extraordinary women and it is a great thrill to be recognized alongside them.”

McClain, 47, was hired by NYRA in July 2009 as senior vice president and chief financial officer. In that position, she restructured the finance organization to better meet the financial reporting, cash management and compliance demands of NYRA, a complex organization with three facilities, secure wagering operations and an extensive simulcast television network.

In October 2011, McClain, who boasts a 20-year track record in media finance and operations, was promoted to NYRA executive vice president and chief operating officer, becoming both the first woman and the first African-American to serve in this role for the company.

“Ellen is very deserving of this honor and I join everyone at NYRA in congratulating her,” said Charles Hayward, NYRA president and chief executive officer. “Her management skills – tremendous strategic vision, analytical insight, and strong collaborative abilities – made her a natural fit for appointment to one of the most significant management positions in the thoroughbred racing industry.”

The honorees will be featured in the March issue of the TNJ. In addition, TNJ will honor these movers and shakers during Women’s History Month at its 14^th Anniversary Luncheon on March 22 at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel.

“The women we are honoring this year are in the forefront of American leadership and symbolize the diversity and advancement that has occurred across industry lines,” states TNJ Publisher and CEO Aziz Gueye Adetimirin. The Mistress of Ceremonies for the luncheon will be Brenda Blackmon, co-anchor of My9 WWOR-TV and author of “A Mom’s Story”. The event annually attracts a ‘Who’s Who’ of prominent business executives in various industries.

A full list of the honorees can be found at the following site: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/2/prweb9159449.htm

About The Network Journal

Founded in 1993, The Network Journal a premier monthly magazine except combined issues in July/August and December/January which plays a major role in sharing information and resources that informs and educates professionals, corporate executives and small business owners by providing news and commentary on issues that affect the growth of businesses and the advancement of professionals in the workplace for an audience of predominantly African-American. Engaging over 88,000 readers, The Network Journal is distributed nationwide with a focus on the Tri-state area (NY/NJ/CT) and features successful entrepreneurs and professionals who offer insights on business and career-building strategies, The Network Journal highlights trends in key industries, providing information on valuable resources in the corporate, government, and not-for-profit sectors. For more information call 212-962-3791, or visit the web site: www.tnj.com  

About The New York Racing Association, Inc.

Founded in 1955, and franchised to run thoroughbred racing at New York’s three major tracks through 2033, NYRA boasts a lineage that actually stretches back almost 150 years. NYRA tracks are the cornerstone of the state’s thoroughbred business which contributes more than $2 billion annually to New York State’s urban, suburban and rural economy. In 2011, more than 1.8 million people attended the live races at NYRA tracks. Factoring in nationwide off-track wagering, the average daily betting handle on NYRA races totals more than $8.1 million. NYRA has a vast network of websites, including www.nyra.com, www.belmontstakes.com, and www.nyragroupsales.com. You can also follow NYRA on social media platforms Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Q&A With Veteran Jockey Don Simington

Family: wife, Deianna; son, Jarid

Got into racing because . . . We moved to Tucson, Ariz., when I was young. A neighbor trained horses. His son and I were good friends, and he taught me how to gallop. I had never been on a horse before I was 18. I think my friend put me on the horse so he wouldn’t have to gallop, and he could just ride out on the pony. I moved to New Mexico after I graduated from high school, galloped and groomed horses, and rode my first race at Sunland Park in 1984, when I was 21.

Wisconsin is not exactly the hotbed of horse racing. Did you have any interest in horses or in racing when you were growing up? None at all. I was from a little bitty town up there in Wisconsin. I had never been on the back of a horse until I was 18.

Did you play any sports growing up? I went out for wrestling, but one week before the season was going to start, I broke my wrist and never went out for it again. I never got into any sports. When I graduated from high school, I figured I’d be a welder. I had been accepted into a trade school.

But then you found the horses. Were you scared at first? I was horrified.

So why did you do it? I think I was forced into it by my friends. They didn’t take no for an answer. But after a while, I loved it. I had never been pleasure riding. The first thing I did was gallop a racehorse. Everything was so new, it was scary at first.

How satisfying was it for you to get your 3,000th win? It was real satisfying, especially looking back at all the riders who have won that many races. I know five guys here at Delta who have won 3,000 races. I’ve ridden with some good riders. I didn’t start riding races until I was 21. Some of these guys are from Cajun country, and they grow up riding. When they’re old enough to walk, they’re old enough to ride a horse. I’ve had a lot of good teachers. A lot of good guys have come through here.

Is there anyone in particular you watched closely early on? When I started out, when I had the bug, I watched Laffit Pincay Jr. and Angel Cordero Jr.

What does winning 3,000 races signify to you? A lot of years, a lot of hard work. Looking back, my first goal was just to get to 1,000 wins. I thought that was great. Then when I won 2,000, I wanted to get to 3,000.

And now 4,000? Yes, but when someone asked me what my next goal was after winning 3,000, I said, “3,001.”

One year ago, you broke nine ribs and a collarbone, ruptured your spleen, and punctured a lung in an accident at Delta Downs. How hard was it to come back from that? It was real hard at first. The recovery was hard. It was the worst accident I’d been in. But when I started exercising, and I got close to riding again, I knew I wanted to keep going.

You were in the hospital for eight days: Yes. The first three days I was in ICU. Then after I got out, I was basically quarantined at home for 60 days. The only time I left the house was to go to the doctor’s office.

Was there ever a time during that recovery when you thought, “This is it?” The first week or two. But once I started healing, I wanted to come back, do it again. If I quit I’m going to have to get a real job.

Your agent is Ron Ardoin, a former jockey whom you rode against in Louisiana and who won more than 5,000 races. What are the benefits to having an ex-rider as your agent? It’s a huge advantage. He rode around here for 30 years. He knows everyone, and everyone knows him. He’s super smart and was a good rider. His passion for the game is unbelievable. We get along real well. We’re good friends. We hunt together.

What’s your schedule like year round? I’m pretty much here at Delta all winter. I’ll go over to Evangeline. And then I’ll go up to Louisiana Downs when they open on May 4.

You’ve always been based in Louisiana. Have you ever had any desire to try a bigger circuit, like Kentucky, New York, or California? I’ve always had good business here. My son was born shortly after I got here, and he was able to grow up with the same kids all through high school before he went to college. I have no aspirations of going anywhere else.

You said before you like to hunt. What do you hunt? Deer.

Any other hobbies? Watching football. I used to fish a lot, but I gave that up. Hunting is pretty much it.

What is your favorite football team? Green Bay. I was born up there, and they were so good in the 60s. They’ll always be special.  But the Saints are my second favorite, living in Louisiana as long as I have.

Biggest win? In 2008, I won the Louisiana Premier Night Championship with Magic Sunset for trainer Jim Hudson. That’s a $200,000 race.

Best horse ridden? Most of the horses I’ve been on have been Louisiana-breds. One of my favorites has been a stakes-winning mare named Vickies in Town. She’s trained by my father-in-law, Ray Spencer.

Best horse seen? That’s a tough one. Sunday Silence was good. And Alysheba. Those are some of the best I’ve seen.

Future ambitions? I don’t know. I’ve thought about it, since I’m fixing on turning 49 years old. I’ve been so blessed in my career up to now. When I was hurt, at first I thought, “What am I going to do now?” But I still love doing this. I do know that training is not an option. I have no desire to do that. That’s out. I’d love to ride in the Kentucky Derby. But it’s hard. Hardly any good ones like that come through here.

Ramon Dominguez Named TT TODAY Jockey of the Week

Jockeys’ Guild to Focus on Non-Participating Tracks in 2012

Riders called ‘rock stars’ at annual Assembly

 The Guild decision to focus in 2012 on educating the industry and the public about tracks that are not participating was made during the 2012 Jockeys’ Guild Annual Assembly, held in Ft. Lauderdale.

“The challenges of the past several months concerning track participation has really unified the Guild,” said John Velazquez, chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild. “It’s become clear that some tracks have been shirking their responsibilities and riding on the backs of other tracks who are contributing.  Now that the Stronach Group, NYRA and CDI have reached an agreement with the Guild, it’s time for other tracks, such as those owned by PNGI, to live up to their moral obligations to jockey health and safety.”

The issue was shown in more human terms during a videotaped interview with Jacky Martin, the award-winning quarter horse jockey who was injured on the track last September, showing his progress toward recovery.  In addition, Nancy Lasala, executive director of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, an independent charitable program that assists disabled jockeys, explained the financial hardships being experienced by injured riders and the consistent shortage of funding for their ongoing living expenses and long-term care. 

Also, Dr. Dalton Dietrich, Scientific Director of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami, explained the new advancements in spinal cord injuries, including stem cell researchand how it will affect the future of the sport.

Velazquez said a highlight of the two-day session was a round-table session, conducted by the Guild board, to listen to ideas and concerns from the members concerning short-term and long-term revenue options, safety and unity.  “There was a spirited exchange, and a lot of great ideas and suggestions came out of this session,” said Velazquez.  “Now we will look for ways to implement many of these ideas for the benefit of our members.”

During the two-day session, members of the Guild heard from a variety of experts on insurance, regulations and health and safety issues.  Highlights of the Assembly included the following:

·       Tim Ritvo, Gulfstream Park President and General Manager, told the jockeys they were the “rock stars” of the industry, and encouraged them to continue to live up to the high ethical standards that are required of them.

·       Ed Martin, President and CEO of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, said the Guild “is on its way up,” and complimented members on their contributions to the sport.

·       Bobby Clarkson and Chip Atkins, of RH Clarkson Insurance Company, explained to members their current group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance package, as well as information on a workers’ compensation program.

·       Dennis Mills, of Racing Future, discussed ways to appeal to the “Millennial Generation,” and how young fans can better relate to jockeys. and the sport.

·       Members also learned about new equipment options and research, ongoing communications and lobbying efforts and plans to better showcase jockeys to the racing public.

During its awards luncheon, the Guild honored three men for their positive impact on the sport.  Jacky Martin was honored for outstanding achievements to the quarter horse industry. In the future, that award will carry his name.  DeShawn Parker received the Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award for outstanding achievements for a thoroughbred jockey.  Dave Hicks, retired steward, was presented the Eddie Arcaro Award for exceptional commitment to the Guild.

The Guild membership also re-elected John Velazquez as chairman and G.R. Carter as vice chairman.  Joel Campbell was chosen as the new Guild treasurer and Rodney Prescott is the newly elected secretary.

Velazquez called the Assembly a tremendous success.  “This was a great opportunity for riders to get together and learn more about what’s being done to help us, both personally and professionally.  Now it’s up to us to go back to our tracks and encourage more jockeys to join the Guild.”

Jockeys’ Guild, Inc., the organization representing professional jockeys in American Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing, was founded in May 1940 and has approximately 950 members, including active, retired and disabled jockeys. The purpose is to protect jockeys, strive to achieve a safer racing environment,  to obtain improved insurance and other benefits for members and to monitor developments in local, state and federal laws affecting the racing industry, and in particular, the jockeys.

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Jockeys’ Guild to Focus on Non-Participating Tracks in 2012

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The Jockeys’ Guild  membership has renewed its call for all thoroughbred and quarter horse racetracks to contribute to the Guild to help pay for critically needed insurance benefits such as life insurance, AD&D insurance, temporary disability and other benefits for jockeys. The Guild decision to focus in 2012 on educating the industry and the public about tracks that are not participating was made during the 2012 Jockeys’ Guild Annual Assembly, held in Ft. Lauderdale.

“The challenges of the past several months concerning track participation has really unified the Guild,” said John Velazquez, chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild. “It’s become clear that some tracks have been shirking their responsibilities and riding on the backs of other tracks who are contributing.  Now that the Stronach Group, NYRA and CDI have reached an agreement with the Guild, it’s time for other tracks, such as those owned by PNGI, to live up to their moral obligations to jockey health and safety.”

The issue was shown in more human terms during a videotaped interview with Jacky Martin, the award-winning quarter horse jockey who was injured on the track last September, showing his progress toward recovery.  In addition, Nancy Lasala, executive director of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, an independent charitable program that assists disabled jockeys, explained the financial hardships being experienced by injured riders and the consistent shortage of funding for their ongoing living expenses and long-term care. 

Also, Dr. Dalton Dietrich, Scientific Director of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami, explained the new advancements in spinal cord injuries, including stem cell research and how it will affect the future of the sport.

Velazquez said a highlight of the two-day session was a round-table session, conducted by the Guild board, to listen to ideas and concerns from the members concerning short-term and long-term revenue options, safety and unity.  “There was a spirited exchange, and a lot of great ideas and suggestions came out of this session,” said Velazquez.  “Now we will look for ways to implement many of these ideas for the benefit of our members.”

During the two-day session, members of the Guild heard from a variety of experts on insurance, regulations and health and safety issues.  Highlights of the Assembly included the following:

·        Tim Ritvo, Gulfstream Park President and General Manager, told the jockeys they were the “rock stars” of the industry, and encouraged them to continue to live up to the high ethical standards that are required of them.

·        Ed Martin, President and CEO of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, said the Guild “is on its way up,” and complimented members on their contributions to the sport.

·        Bobby Clarkson and Chip Atkins, of RH Clarkson Insurance Company, explained to members their current group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance package, as well as information on a workers’ compensation program.

·        Dennis Mills, of Racing Future, discussed ways to appeal to the “Millennial Generation,” and how young fans can better relate to jockeys. and the sport.

·        Members also learned about new equipment options and research, ongoing communications and lobbying efforts and plans to better showcase jockeys to the racing public.

During its awards luncheon, the Guild honored three men for their positive impact on the sport.  Jacky Martin was honored for outstanding achievements to the quarter horse industry. In the future, that award will carry his name.  DeShawn Parker received the Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award for outstanding achievements for a thoroughbred jockey.  Dave Hicks, retired steward, was presented the Eddie Arcaro Award for exceptional commitment to the Guild.

The Guild membership also re-elected John Velazquez as chairman and G.R. Carter as vice chairman.  Joel Campbell was chosen as the new Guild treasurer and Rodney Prescott is the newly elected secretary.

Velazquez called the Assembly a tremendous success.  “This was a great opportunity for riders to get together and learn more about what’s being done to help us, both personally and professionally.  Now it’s up to us to go back to our tracks and encourage more jockeys to join the Guild.”

Jockeys’ Guild, Inc., the organization representing professional jockeys in American Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing, was founded in May 1940 and has approximately 950 members, including active, retired and disabled jockeys. The purpose is to protect jockeys, strive to achieve a safer racing environment,  to obtain improved insurance and other benefits for members and to monitor developments in local, state and federal laws affecting the racing industry, and in particular, the jockeys.

Jockeys’ Guild Honors Three for Industry Achievements

APPRENTICE JOCKEY PROFILE: JOSE I. RODRIGUEZ

From NYRA Communications Department

“When I was growing up in Puerto Rico, we used to listen to the races on the radio,” said Rodriguez, 21, shortly after winning Thursday’s fourth race aboard D’ Sauvage for his fourth victory of the inner track meet. “I used to ride my uncle’s horses [on the farm] and as soon as I could I went to the jockey school in San Juan. I always wanted to be a jockey.”

After attending the Escuela Vocacional Hipica, or Vocational Equine School, for two years, Rodriguez turned professional, riding briefly in Puerto Rico before moving his tack to Louisiana. He notched his first United States victory with his first mount, Storm Kitty, at Delta Downs on February 9, 2011, and within a month began riding in Florida, first at Gulfstream Park and then at Calder Race Course. After riding only nine winners at Calder from April 25 through September 30, Rodriguez subsequently finished tied for sixth place with 18 winners at the Tropical-at-Calder meet which ended on November 30.

Next stop, New York.

“The best riders are in New York, and that’s where I wanted to be,” said Rodriguez, who currently has a seven-pound weight allowance. “They are more professional, and the racing is a better class.”

Apprentice jockeys often fare well at the Big A during the winter months, when many of the top name riders head to Florida, but this year’s jockey colony has proven exceptionally strong. Headed by reigning Eclipse winner Ramon Dominguez, the ensemble not only includes veterans such as Cornelio Velasquez, Mike Luzzi, David Cohen, Alan Garcia and C.C. Lopez but also two established apprentices in Ryan Curatolo and Irad Ortiz., Jr. and a handful of other bug boys.

“His time will come,” said former jockey Jose Amy, who took Rodriguez’s book three weeks ago. “I see a lot of talent, and he’s willing to work hard. Already I see the effects of what I have been telling him – simple things, like using the whip only when necessary, concentrating on saving ground, being patient and keeping the rhythm of the horse. There’s more to being a jockey than sitting on top of a horse, and this kid is learning.”

Rodriguez’s willingness to learn and work hard, along with his natural ability, has attracted the attention of horsemen.

“This is as good a jockey colony as it’s ever been, and I think this kid is going to wind up doing well,” said trainer Carlos Martin. “He’s a strong finisher, and he’s got a good work ethic. He comes out every morning and he’s a nice young kid, too.”

While being able to ride at Aqueduct this winter has been a dream come true for Rodriguez, he is determined not to let it stop there.

“If everything works out, I want to stay in New York,” he said. “This is the best place, and that’s where I want to stay.”

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Alcohol Testing for New York Jockeys Approved

Jockeys’ Guild announces agreement with Churchill Downs Incorporated

While terms of the agreement were not disclosed, CDI agreed to make payments to the Jockeys’ Guild to subsidize health insurance, life insurance and disability benefits for all jockeys who are members of the Guild and ride in the United States. CDI tracks include Churchill Downs Racetrack, Calder Casino & Race Course, Arlington Park and Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.

“We sincerely appreciate the commitment made by CDI to support the benefits that impact our jockeys,” said Terry Meyocks, national manager of the Jockeys’ Guild. “This agreement will directly benefit approximately 950 active, retired and permanently disabled members. It is critical that we receive support from all of our racetrack partners within the industry. “

Currently, the Guild provides life insurance, AD&D insurance and temporary disability benefits to its active members, as well as life insurance and aid to the permanently disabled members. 

About Churchill Downs, Incorporated

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”) (NASDAQ:  CHDN), headquartered in Louisville, Ky., owns and operates the world-renowned Churchill Downs Racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, as well as racetrack and casino operations and a poker room in Miami Gardens, Fla.; racetrack, casino and video poker operations in New Orleans,. La.; racetrack operations in Arlington Heights, Ill.; and a casino resort in Greenville, Miss. CDI also owns the country's premier account-wagering company, TwinSpires.com, and other advance-deposit wagering providers; the totalizator company, United Tote; and a collection of racing-related telecommunications and data companies. Information about CDI can be found online at www.churchilldownsincorporated.com. 

About the Jockeys’ Guild

Jockeys’ Guild, Inc., the organization representing professional jockeys in American Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing, was founded in May, 1940 and has approximately 950 members, including active, retired disabled jockeys.  The purpose is to protect jockeys, strive to achieve a safer racing environment, to obtain improved insurance and other benefits for members and to monitor developments in local, state and federal laws affecting the racing industry, and in particular, the jockeys.

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