At the conclusion of the first day of the International Jockey Concussion, Safety, and Wellness Conference, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), in collaboration with the Jockeys’ Guild, announced a significant initiative aimed at supporting the mental well-being of jockeys.
A New Partnership for Mental Health Support
HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus and Jockeys’ Guild President Terry Meyocks revealed that they have formed a groundbreaking partnership with Onrise, a leading company specializing in athlete-specific mental health care. This initiative will provide jockeys with accessible mental health resources in their primary language, emphasizing the importance of tailored support for this unique group of athletes.
Confidential Access to Professional Support
The partnership with Onrise is a key component of HISA and the Guild’s ongoing commitment to enhancing jockeys’ overall well-being. The platform will offer confidential access to mental health support through the insights and experiences of trained retired athletes, licensed therapists, and psychiatrists. Jockeys will have the flexibility to navigate between different levels of care and utilize multiple services simultaneously. This initiative aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, fostering a culture of openness and support within the sport.
Onrise has already established partnerships with various professional sports organizations, including the MLS Players Association, Inter Miami CF, the US Women’s National Team Players Association, the Premier Lacrosse League, and all three women’s professional volleyball leagues in the United States. Through this initiative, qualified jockeys will have access to Onrise services at no cost, joining over 15,000 athletes who already benefit from these resources.
Expert Insights on Jockey Well-Being
“Jockeys face immense physical and mental demands—and their mental health is critical to their long-term success and well-being,” said Lisa Lazarus. “As highly skilled professional athletes, they encounter unique stressors. By partnering with Onrise, we are providing jockeys with a safe space to connect with professional athlete peers who understand their experiences, offering valuable support as they navigate the pressures of this demanding career.”
Terry Meyocks echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are proud to partner with HISA and Onrise to provide jockeys with a crucial resource for mental wellness. For decades, the Jockeys’ Guild has tirelessly advocated for the safety, health, and well-being of our athletes, and this partnership marks another important step in that mission.” He added that the collaboration offers qualifying members the opportunity to connect with athletic peers who truly recognize their challenges, allowing them to take better care of their health.
Commitment to Athlete Well-Being
Kimberly Quigley, MD, FABPN, CEO of Onrise, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with HISA and the Jockeys’ Guild: “Onrise is privileged to support athlete mental health and overall wellness during this critical time for horse racing. We appreciate both organizations’ commitment to ensuring their athletes have the tools they need to succeed both on and off the track.”
This initiative reflects a progressive step toward prioritizing the mental health of jockeys and enhancing the overall support system within the sport, paving the way for a healthier, more resilient community of equestrian athletes.
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