Jockeys Want Saunas Back to Help with Weight Loss
The closure of saunas on British racetracks has caused a stir among jockeys, who rely on these facilities to shed pounds and make weight. However, the results of a recent survey conducted by the Professional Jockeys' Association (PJA) have been twisted by racing's power brokers to justify their removal.
PJA's Board May Have Already Decided Saunas Would Go
Investigations suggest that the PJA's own board had already made the decision to remove saunas prior to the survey even being distributed. The motives behind this decision remain unclear, but it has raised concerns among PJA members.
Misleading Survey Results Falsely Claim Majority Supported Removal
The survey asked jockeys whether they supported the permanent removal of saunas from racecourses, but the options provided were not a simple yes or no. Of the 190 jockeys who participated in the survey, only 27 answered yes, while the majority expressed support for saunas if certain conditions were met. However, the PJA claimed that '88 per cent voted for their removal', which is not an accurate representation of the results.
PJA Rushed the Survey and Made Quick Decision to Remove Saunas
Members of the PJA were given very little time to respond to the survey, with only five days between the start and end dates. Just eight days after the survey closed, the PJA Board made the decision to remove saunas, causing confusion and anger among jockeys.
Disagreement Between Racing Authorities and Jockeys
The removal of saunas on British racecourses was a decision made in conjunction with the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) and the Racecourse Association (RCA). Racing authorities argue that the 2021 survey results support their decision, while jockeys claim they were not adequately consulted and that the decision did not accurately reflect their views.
Jockeys Call for Return of Saunas for Mental Wellbeing
Jockeys are now speaking out about the negative impact of sauna removal on their mental wellbeing. They argue that the loss of these facilities, in combination with the removal of the Covid weight allowance, has caused increased stress and anxiety among riders. Jockeys need access to racecourse saunas to manage their weight effectively and maintain their mental health.
PJA Fails its Members, Calls for Collaboration Moving Forward
The PJA has been criticized for failing its members by not adequately representing their views on the removal of saunas. Now, the BHA, RCA, and PJA must come together to find a solution that addresses the concerns of jockeys and allows for the return of saunas on racecourses across the UK.
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