The Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) on Tuesday pledged an annual financial contribution of €123,000 to support the Irish Injured Jockeys (IIJ) over a three-year period. This represents an enormous boost for the jockey’s fund and will effectively mean that, for that three-year period, any money raised will go directly to assist jockeys in need.

Building on an already existing positive relationship between the Irish racecourses and the Irish jockeys, all 26 racecourses have committed to the scheme which will cover the running costs of the charity. The racecourse donations are on a scaled basis, depending on the racecourse grade. Grade 1 tracks commit €7,500 a year, Grade 2 tracks will give €5,000 annually, while all others courses will contribute €3,500 each year.