Horse racing’s federal oversight agency, HISA, and the Jockeys’ Guild have joined forces with mental-health company Onrise to provide jockeys with access to care and support. The collaboration aims to enhance the well-being of jockeys by offering mental-health services tailored to their needs and provided in their native languages. Therapists, psychiatrists, and trained retired athletes are among the resources available to jockeys to promote openness and reduce stigma within the horse racing community.
The initiative was unveiled at a three-day conference focusing on jockey concussions, safety, and wellness. Jockeys who meet the eligibility criteria can avail of these services free of charge, as outlined in a press release issued on Thursday. HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus emphasised the importance of addressing both the physical and mental demands placed on jockeys for their long-term success and well-being. This partnership aims to create a supportive environment where jockeys can connect with professional athlete peers who understand their unique experiences and help them navigate the pressures of their challenging careers.
Terry Meyocks, President and CEO of the Jockeys’ Guild, expressed pride in the organisation’s collaboration with HISA and Onrise to advance jockey mental wellness. Highlighting the Guild’s ongoing commitment to advocating for jockey safety and wellness, Meyocks described this initiative as a significant step towards fulfilling that mission. By providing jockeys with unprecedented access to mental-health support, the partnership seeks to revolutionise how jockeys care for their health within the sport.
Onrise has a track record of working with prominent sports organisations, including the MLS Players Association, the U.S. Women’s National Team Players Association, and all three U.S. women’s professional volleyball leagues. This collaboration between HISA, the Jockeys’ Guild, and Onrise underscores a collective effort within the horse racing industry to prioritise the mental well-being of jockeys and ensure they have the resources needed to thrive in a demanding and competitive field.