Jockeys eye footballers' pay claim

Jockeys are monitoring the footballers' fight for a share-out of television cash.

The soccer debate has been followed with some interest by the Jockeys' Association, with the prospect of the distribution of money from the Attheraces media rights deal yet to be decided.

Jockeys Association executive manager Michael Caulfield, while making no mention of a strike by his members, has confirmed that they expect to receive their fair share of the new funds destined for racing.

"I am in regular contact with the PFA," he said. "They are good colleagues of ours. It is no trade secret that I want to see the money coming into racing being used to the best effect for all sections of the industry."

Veteran rider John Reid, joint president of the Jockeys' Association, added: "The jockeys are having a serious look at it without

"If prize money goes up then we will get a bit more, but I think we are looking at more than just that."

Good for them. Jockeys, who put life and limb at stake for the racing public's pleasure, and thereby help fund the coffers of the industry, should have their efforts more appreciated monetarily.

I doubt if the riders will ever actually take part in a walkout, but if you push someone far enough, you never know. Prize money is expected to grow as a result of both the media rights deal and the levy replacement scheme, from which jockeys would receive an increased share.

Caulfield observes: "The British Horseracing Board and the Racecourse Association are well aware of our stance, which was taken many months ago before the Attheraces deal was signed."

Aware they should be, but action in the shape of a better reward for all jockeys is needed soon.