POLICY NO.RLP011

The Concussion Protocol Policy is to ensure the timely and appropriate management of concussions sustained by jockeys or drivers during horse racing activities. This protocol aims to prioritize the health and safety of jockeys and drivers and reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with concussions.

Jockeys and drivers who sustain concussions pose health concerns not only to themselves if they continue to race without medical care, but also to other drivers, jockeys, and race horses.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Concussion Protocol Policy is to establish clear guidelines and procedures for the concussion protocols for jockeys and drivers at races scheduled to take place at the racetracks in Alberta. By implementing a comprehensive Concussion Protocol, we aim to prioritize the health and safety of jockeys and drivers and uphold the highest standards of care within the horse racing industry.

AUTHORITY

1. An official or a medical person must initiate the protocol. The official may include:
• Stewards or judges, starters, official veterinarians, paddock judges, or outriders.

2. Where an official becomes aware that a jockey or driver may have suffered a concussion, the official shall refer the jockey or driver to the medical person and the jockey or driver must immediately report to the Medical Person.

ASSESSMENT

1. The Medical Person will make an initial injury and/or Scat 5 assessment and determine whether the jockey or driver must be referred to a Qualified Medical Professional for diagnosis and notify the Stewards/Judges of his or her determination.
2. Where a referral is made to a Qualified Medical Professional, the Steward or Judge will issue a ruling that the jockey or driver is suspended from engaging in his or her obligations under the Rules of Racing until such time as he or she provides a note from a Qualified Medical Professional that he or she has medical authorization to return to ride or drive, and a subsequent ruling is issued to reinstate his or her licence.

RETURN TO RIDING OR DRIVING

1. Anyone required to obtain medical authorization to return to ride or drive, a note from a Qualified Medical Professional is required, prior to receiving the note, to explain the full scope of his or her requirements under the Rules of Governing Racing in Alberta to the Qualified Medical Professional.
2. Neither the ruling suspending the jockey or driver, nor the ruling reinstating the jockey or driver, is appealable. The health and safety of jockeys and drivers takes precedence over competition.

REQUIREMENTS

1. Alberta Racetracks shall have a medical person with Scat 5 training, present at the racetrack whenever jockeys, drivers, or exercise riders are racing, driving, or exercising horses.
2. When an official becomes aware that a jockey or driver may have suffered an accident with a potential concussion, the official must refer the jockey or driver to a medical person.
3. All jockeys and drivers must sign a concussion protocol acknowledgment form prior to riding or driving their first race of each season.

COMMUNICATION

• Horse Racing Alberta will provide information to officials, drivers, jockeys, trainers, and other relevant personnel on the signs, symptoms, and potential risks of concussions. Signs and symptoms may include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise.
• Any licensee with knowledge, a jockey or driver having suffered an incident while exercising or racing a horse at the racetrack shall promptly report this to the Stewards or Judges.

Jockey/Driver Concussion Protocol

EVALUATION

This Concussion Protocol Policy will be periodically reviewed and updated as needed to reflect industry standards, regulations, and changing circumstances. This policy is intended to provide clear procedures and guidelines for concussions, with a primary focus on ensuring safety and welfare while minimizing disruptions to participants and the racing community.

Approved April 26th, 2024 | Board Motion Number BD058
Kent Verlik, CEO | Diana McQueen, Chair