SPORTSMEN and women have to be extremely vigilant when it comes to their health, and especially to what they eat and drink. The prohibitions are varied depending on the sport, but drug taking is not acceptable in any case. This is so with jockeys, and it is especially important given that they are involved in a very precarious activity, where split second reactions are vital.

Given the increase in positive tests in Ireland in recent years, it is clear that jockeys have to be more and more careful. The reasons for the presence of prohibited substances in their blood samples can be many, including being put there by accident or even malice. This places a greater onus on the individual to at all times be aware of the possibility of such an occurrence.