Plans Being Finalized for 75th Guild Assembly
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Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse jockeys from around the country will attend the 75th annual Jockeys' Guild Assembly Jan. 18-20 at the Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Fla.
The assembly is taking place following the Eclipse Awards ceremony Jan. 17 at Gulfstream Park.
"While recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Guild and its accomplishments, we will also focus on the future and priorities moving forward," said Jockeys' Guild national manager Terry Meyocks. "In addition we will be discussing integrity issues and raising awareness of our riders for the benefit of the entire industry."
Guild chairman John Velazquez encourages all members to attend the event.
"While we realize that many tracks are conducting holiday racing Jan. 19, all Guild members should make it a priority to attend the assembly," Velazquez said. "Even if it means arriving on Monday evening to attend Tuesday's sessions, it is vital for all members to join us to provide input and feedback on the issues and future priorities of the Guild."
A welcome cocktail party is planned Sunday evening (Jan. 18) at the Diplomat. On Monday (Jan. 19), in addition to the morning sessions, an awards banquet will be held at Gulfstream. That evening, the Jockeys' Guild will present the Lafitt Pincay Jr. Award to Gary Stevens, the Jacky Martin Award to Eddie Garcia, and the Eddie Arcaro Award to Corey Johnsen, president of Kentucky Downs.
Jockeys Anne Von Rosen and Michael Straight, who have both suffered catastrophic on-track injuries, will be recognized with the Jockeys' Guild Courage Award. Past and present executives who have played important roles in the Guild's history also will be recognized.
The Tuesday (Jan. 20) morning and afternoon sessions will include industry and safety updates and presentations from industry leaders. After the presentations, there will be a closed afternoon session that will include the formal induction of the newly elected senate members as well as the election of the board of directors.
The final agenda will be released later this week.