25 June 2002
Jockey Liability Update
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June 30 isn't usually a 'red-letter' day on the Australian racing calendar, but it could be, this year. In fact, it could prove a defining moment for the $3 billion industry as most professional riders won't take to the track beyond that point, unless the country's State jockey associations and insurance giant Jardines can work-out their much-publicised public liability crisis.
They're meeting via a special national phone 'hook-up' today. As with all insurance premiums, the cost of the jockeys' 'cover' has escalated and many simply won't be able to pay-up before June 30, to get on-going insurance protection.
But who's most at risk? Champion jockey Darren Beadman argues it's not only regional jockeys who will bear the brunt of these premium hikes. He says the 'boys and girls' who ride track work and barrier trials around Australia will also be in trouble.
