Jockeys Discuss Industry Issues with Governor Fletcher

Frankfort, KY: Governor Ernie Fletcher and some of horse racing's leading jockeys discussed industry issues in a meeting this morning at Churchill Downs. Governor Fletcher told the jockeys he fully supports the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority's (KHRA) decision to expand a federal judge's ruling permitting advertising by riders.

U.S. District Judge John G. Heyburn II ruled yesterday all jockeys could wear the Jockeys’ Guild patch and five riders, who sued the KHRA, could wear commercial advertising.  The KHRA expanded the ruling to allow all riders to wear advertising.

"Horse racing is vital to the economic well-being of Kentucky and we seek your input as we work to enhance our signature industry,” stated Governor Fletcher.  "We are progressively changing Kentucky's horse racing industry and our proactive approach will bring jockeys, owners, trainers and breeders to the table with the racing authority.”

Governor Fletcher told the jockeys he also charged the KHRA with promoting the racing industry in the Commonwealth in addition to its regulatory responsibilities.

In an executive order signed by Governor Fletcher in January, the former Kentucky Racing Commission was abolished and the KHRA was established in its place.

William Street, chairman of the KHRA, and LaJuana S. Wilcher, secretary of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, joined Governor Fletcher in the meeting. 

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