The 2025 International Conference for the Health, Safety, and Welfare of Jockeys, held in Hong Kong on December 11-12, focused on translating science-based research into practical strategies to enhance jockey safety, performance, and overall well-being. Organized by the IFHA’s Jockeys Health and Wellbeing Committee and supported by The Hong Kong Jockey Club, the event featured 13 sessions covering topics such as nutrition, concussion management, injury prevention, individualized riding weights, and career transitions. The conference emphasized a shift from merely admiring jockey resilience to adopting a structured, evidence-based approach to their care, involving a diverse group of experts including medical professionals, researchers, and jockeys from over a dozen countries.
Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board CEO Darragh O’Loughlin highlighted the conference’s theme, “Performance Medicine in Racing—Developing and Protecting the Jockey,” underscoring the broader focus on supporting jockeys throughout their careers, not just responding to injuries. The event fostered collaboration and knowledge-sharing to build sustainable systems and culture for jockey health, marking a significant advancement in the racing industry’s commitment to high standards of care and safety for riders.
