Academic Skills Class Launched for Jockeys

Since the Jockeys' Guild Education Foundation (JGEF) launch in April, Executive Director, Ramon Dominguez has visited the jocks' quarters at Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Laurel Park, Charles Town, Delaware Park, Finger Lakes Racetrack and Saratoga Race Course to talk about the program and conduct a survey of all the Guild members to better understand jockeys' educational background and career interests. The survey, completed by 267 individuals, indicated a high level of interest in continuing education, with a broad spectrum of fields, ranging from GED programs, equine related education to trade certifications. "It has been nice to connect with so many jockeys this summer. We know formal education ends when most jockeys begin riding, but it has been great to hear their individual stories and hopes for the future. On behalf of the jockey colony and the Jockeys' Guild we are grateful to The Lavin Family Foundation for recognizing this need and stepping up to make a difference. Receiving the 501 (c) 3 approval so quickly after applying has increased everyone's enthusiasm and hopes for the future," comments Dominguez. As a result of the findings of the survey, the Jockeys' Guild Education Foundation and Bluegrass Community and Technical College's Workforce Solutions department have launched an Introductory Class, an eight-week online course designed to help jockeys build academic skills, strengthen digital literacy, and prepare for future career-specific educational opportunities. Twelve jockeys are enrolled in the first introductory class. Upon completion, participants will have the opportunity to enroll in career-specific courses and programs at the institution of their choice and to receive scholarship funding through the Jockeys' Guild Education Foundation. The Race for Education, a longtime supporter of educational initiatives for horsemen, has donated 10 computers for participants who do not have access to computers. "Education is empowering, and this program will benefit jockeys while they are riding and help ensure their success after the races. This aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are proud to play a role in the program's success," said Elisabeth Jensen, President and Co-Founder of The Race for Education. The application for jockey scholarships and academic programs was made available in mid-August, and to date 33 jockeys have applied. In addition to the Academic Success Program, an active jockey has applied, been accepted and is enrolled at Lincoln Technical College, pursuing a HVAC certification. Initial funding for JGEF, covering setup, scholarships, and administrative costs, has been provided by the Lavin Family Foundation. JGEF operates with the support of the Guild's administrative infrastructure. Recently the organization's 501 (c) 3 status has been approved, positioning JGEF to accept tax-deductible contributions, enabling sustainable growth through future grants, donations, and industry partnerships. "The Lavin Family Foundation is proud to lead this effort to expand educational opportunities for jockeys," said Craig Bernick, President of the Lavin Family Foundation. "Education is a core pillar of our work because it is one of the most effective means of empowerment. That applies to jockeys while they are actively riding and in the years following when they hang up their tack. We are excited to support this first group and help grow these opportunities across the industry."