Jockeys’ Guild Seeks Continued Redistribution Of Assets

Two hundred and forty guild members indicated that they wish for Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) to continue subsidizing Jockeys’ Guild insurance costs.  I guess they do!  People on welfare also hope that those payments continue to flow.  Is it not deplorable how many people in this country think that others should pay for benefits bestowed upon them?  This and other interesting information is contained in a statement from CDI Executive Vice President and General Counsel Alan K. Tse.  A copy of this statement appeared on the Blood Horse website this morning, Wednesday December 7, 2011.  (www.bloodhorse.com).  The Jockeys’ Guild has a history of mismanaging its’ financial affairs.  In most business organizations, that failure would fall at the feet of the Chief Financial Officer and the Board of Directors.  Within this particular organization it is difficult to say who is in control or how efficiently they execute their fiduciary responsibilities.  There is however, great clarity on other guild issues.  They will continue to say “Gimmee, Gimmee, Gimmee and when the matter of racing surface condition arises, more misguided decisions will be made.  Two or three guild members will decide whether all riders will ride or not under the guise of a consensus of opinion.  The few leaders, who are usually lacking strength of character, can not bear to have this action appear to be anything other than a popular if not unanimous decision.  Intimidation helps too.  Many race track general managers are familiar with having their business cancelled or curtailed by those who have nothing invested.  Many members of the guild also believe that they should be the final arbiters of soundness of horses.  Horse racing needs more decision makers that can say no to improper demands.

“Never beg for what you have the power to earn.”