Jockeys

Jockey Pay Dispute with thoroughbred Owners Reaches Critical ​Stage

Oklahoma⁤ city, OK – September 1, 2025, ⁤10:26:51⁤ AM CT ⁤- A contentious dispute over⁤ jockey compensation is nearing a⁤ resolution as negotiations between the Oklahoma Thoroughbred Association (OTA)‌ and the ⁣Oklahoma Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (OHBPA) continue down to the wire. The disagreement threatens to disrupt racing schedules at Oklahoma’s tracks, including Remington Park, and​ impacts the livelihoods of jockeys ‍and the stability of the state’s ⁣thoroughbred ⁤industry.

At the heart of the conflict is ⁢a proposed increase ‍in jockeys’ ⁤share of purse⁣ money, currently set at 10%. The OHBPA is‌ advocating ​for a raise to⁤ 12%, arguing that Oklahoma jockeys⁤ are significantly underpaid compared to their counterparts in other major⁢ racing states. Owners, represented by the‍ OTA, contend that such‍ an increase would negatively impact their profitability and‍ potentially drive owners ⁣and horses out of the state. The stakes are high, with the outcome‍ potentially reshaping‌ the economic​ landscape ‌for Oklahoma’s thoroughbred racing circuit and⁢ influencing future negotiations nationwide.

The dispute stems from a⁤ long-standing imbalance in revenue distribution. Jockeys currently receive 10% of⁣ the purse,owners ⁢receive 60%,and the remaining 30%⁤ is allocated to track operators and other expenses. The OHBPA asserts that ⁢rising costs of living and increased competition for riders necessitate a fairer share ‌for jockeys, who bear significant risk and contribute directly to the success of each race.

“Our jockeys⁤ are skilled‌ athletes who put their bodies on the line every day,” stated⁤ a ⁢representative from the OHBPA. “A modest increase in their percentage of ‌the purse is ​a necessary step to ensure⁤ they can continue to compete and contribute to the vibrancy of Oklahoma racing.”

The OTA maintains that an ⁤increase to 12% would place an undue financial burden on owners, particularly smaller operations. they propose option solutions, such as exploring increased ⁣revenue streams ⁣through⁤ expanded wagering⁤ options⁢ and marketing ⁤initiatives. Negotiations are ongoing,with both sides expressing a willingness to reach⁣ a compromise‍ before the start of the fall racing ​season. A⁣ failure to reach an agreement ‍could lead to a boycott by jockeys⁤ or other ​forms of⁢ protest, potentially halting racing at ‌Oklahoma tracks.