Flying dismounts to become compulsory in UK The British Horseracing Authority and Horsemen’s Group have announced that from next month winning riders of all Group 1 and Grade 1 contests will be required to jump from their mounts when returning to the winners’ enclosure. The two bodies have reached this decision following recommendations received from a working group set up to investigate ways for horse racing to raise its profile in respect to other major sports across all social channels. The flying dismount has become synonymous with jockey Frankie Dettori who, according to the working group, has been a key driver in raising the profile of racing and that his flying dismounts are viewed positively across all sectors of society but particularly among younger sports fans on social media. The working group not only looked at the effects of the flying dismount on audiences but investigated the physical impact of the dismount on both the horse and rider. Having concluded that the flying dismount has no negative impact on the horse and that physically fit jockeys have a less than 2% chance of sustaining a minor injury it has been determined that the likely benefits for the sport outweigh any potential risks. This new rule for jockeys comes into effect on the 1st May but the BHA will be encouraging all riders competing in Grade 1 contests at Aintree later this week to consider leaping from their mounts should they win the race. There are four Grade 1 contests up for decision on Thursday at Aintree, another four on Friday and three on Saturday. Ironcially the Grand National itself doesn't fall under the new guideline as it is a Grade 3 race. Jockeys will be able to receive an exemption from the flying dismount for a given race if they produce a doctor's letter outlining an exisiting medical condition which may increase their risk of further injury. This letter must be presented to the Clerk Of The Scales at the time of weighing out for the contest.
