WEIGHING ROOM MUST FEEL SAFE FOR WOMEN

THE Professional Jockeys Association’s code of conduct states that areas where riders mix should be free of fear, intimidation and discrimination. Any issue, the code says, should be reported confidentially to a PJA representative with courses of action starting with mediation. That worked well, then. Reading the allegations made by Bryony Frost against Robbie Dunne would suggest Frost didn’t feel safeguarded in the weighing room and her faith in the self-policed code was so flimsy that she needed to go directly to the British Horseracing Authority with her accusations. Whether her allegations are proven or not, the increasing number of young female jockeys should not be put in a position where they feel intimidated. It is ridiculous that they may be forced into a situation of being in the same changing rooms as male colleagues in the 21st century. Inadequate infrastructure and lack of female valets should be addressed if racing is genuinely focused on being inclusive and welcoming to all. But making sure the sport is fit for the modern world should not have any impact on this case. Specific allegations should be investigated without agenda or influence. Dunne’s legal team have made strong claims about fairness and the treatment of their client during the BHA investigation. In one sense the sport is under investigation. It is a high-profile case with inflammatory allegations. But the lives and careers of two athletes could potentially be defined by this case. Anything that prejudices it must be avoided at all costs.