THERE is no one solution that will please all parties when it comes to the impassioned debate around saunas no longer being available to jockeys on racecourses.
A host of riders insist they are continuing to sweat in order to make weight – regardless of whether there are sauna facilities on track or not. They believe the powers that be are simply forcing them into more dangerous scenarios where they sweat away from their peers and medical professionals, either in public saunas or in their cars while on the way to the races.
On the other hand, the authorities do not seem to feel comfortable with jockeys dehydrating themselves in order to compete, which is obviously not an ideal situation but ultimately is still a reality for many. A move to reintroduce saunas could also bring with it significant costs where separate facilities are provided for female riders.
The current saga is playing out predominantly in Britain at the moment but it shouldn’t be forgotten that it was only in March of last year when Sean Flanagan quit the Irish Jockeys Association over this very issue, and he said at the time there were “a lot of riders feeling very against” the decision to permanently close Irish racecourse saunas.
Given how Britain’s disastrous whip-rule change rollout has materialised, it seems as though there has been a lack of proper communication and leadership in terms of those representing Britain’s jockeys.
Top communicator
However, one figure who has come out of the past week with his reputation very much enhanced - both from his efforts on and off the track – is the excellent Tom Marquand.
Whether or not you agree with his belief that racecourse saunas should be reopened in order for riders to sweat in a more controlled environment than is currently the case, there is much to be admired about how the top-class rider conducts himself so polishedly.
Despite having only turned 25 in March, Marquand speaks with all the professionalism and confidence of a jockey many years his senior.
That applies to his general media duties when coming across as a terrific communicator post-race, generally making himself freely available to the press and operating an engaging social media profile. In a big moment for the sport in Britain this summer, it was notable how he hit all the right notes in the immediate aftermath of the King and Queen’s first Royal Ascot winner with Desert Hero.
Talking points
Most notably, though, he has properly fronted up to major talking points like the whip and sauna debates.
If you didn’t get the chance to listen to his extended interview surrounding these issues with Oli Bell on ITV’s coverage of the Sunday Series last weekend, the clips are well worth seeking out on ITV Racing’s Twitter account.
Standing up
There is no hyperbole, no sensationalism, no fluff. As well as that excellent contribution, he actively sought out Nick Luck for his opportunity to respond to comments made by Racecourse Association chair and BHA board member Wilf Walsh on the Nick Luck Daily Podcast a day earlier.
He is showing fine leadership for a group that has seemingly needed it badly in Britain of late. With many senior, high-profile departures in the Irish weighing room in recent times too, how many top riders in this jurisdiction would even take the same approach? Marquand’s reasoned but decisive tone is arguably the best representation British jockeys have had for some time.
To top it off, he is simply mustard in the saddle too. The classic-winning jockey has delivered a series of outstanding efforts this season, including last week’s daring Goodwood Cup success on Quickthorn - part of a four-timer during Glorious Goodwood. William Buick will likely be too difficult to catch at the head of this year’s flat jockeys’ championship in Britain but – make no mistake – Marquand is the complete package.
DO you know the common theme between at least 70% of winners in the non-amateur rider races at the 2023 Galway Festival?
Last week’s Ballybrit highlight was a massive meeting for graduates of the pony racing scene, with at least 33 of the 47 races not restricted to amateurs won by jockeys who had honed their skills on the flapping circuit.
These included Danny Gilligan’s front-running masterclass in the Galway Plate on Ash Tree Meadow, Paul Townend’s tremendous effort on Zarak The Brave in the Galway Hurdle and a five-timer at the festival for outstanding young talent Dylan Browne McMonagle, who was awarded the Pat Smullen Memorial Trophy as leading flat rider.
For good measure, trainer Peter Fahey, who had an excellent week in the west with four winners, also started out in pony racing as a child.
Time and time again, the pony racing ranks are producing horsemen and women of the highest calibre to fly the flag for Ireland around the world. The Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE) has a definite purpose to serve in the industry but does not appear to be delivering the same type of returns as pony racing when it comes to sourcing top jockeys of late. Trends can change over time and it seems as though more top flapping performers are nowadays being snapped up by big yards and brought through the ranks in this route. Many are sticking with education for longer to complete their Leaving Certificate too.
Industry backing
There was positive news in recent days when it was confirmed that vital insurance cover has been secured for the pony racing circuit over the next year but premiums have been rising. These are said to have totalled roughly €60,000 for last year.
To its credit, Horse Racing Ireland has made good progress to support the industry financially in recent years but, from the outside in, it would seem logical that racing’s governing body could play a bigger role in supporting the pony racing sector.
HRI delivered a grant of €12,500 two years ago in a desperate time for pony racing, and also stumped up a €30,000 deposit for insurance cover 12 months ago. While these are welcome steps, more could be done to assist a voluntarily-run sector that often appears financially under strain. In the grand scheme of things, it wouldn’t be a huge expenditure by any means for HRI to completely cover this year’s insurance for pony racing.
That said, whenever public funds are handed out, there is a level of outside expectation in terms of accountability. A greater input from HRI would surely require a higher level of unity among pony racing’s various committees and the potential for stronger regulation in some areas. There would be a bigger national spotlight on pony racing and a more unified approach among organisers would be beneficial for all.
A stronger relationship between these parties might well bring positives for both sides. More occasional opportunities to host pony races on Irish racecourses - as we’ve seen in Britain - could help to get more families through the gates of tracks while providing another outlet for young riders to develop.
The pony racing sector is clearly delivering the goods in terms of producing future stars for Irish racing. While the going is good, strengthening such a key grassroots activity would surely reap dividends for everyone in the long term.