Skip to Content

Media Release: COVID-19 - Minimum weights to rise 2kg due to jockey welfare

Thoroughbred Racing Chief Executive Officer Nick Redin has announced today that there will be a 2kg increase in minimum weights following a request from the South Australia Jockeys Association (SAJA).

Thoroughbred Racing SA, in consultation with industry participants including the SAJA, the SA Branch of the Australian Trainers Association and Racing Australia, has determined that in order to maintain the spread of weights, all weights in Handicap races will be raised by 2kg from the minimum weight with the minimum top weight not less than 62kg (in 2yo only races not less than 61kg). The scale of Set Weight races will also be raised 2kg where necessary to ensure the minimum weight is not less than 56kg.

"The wellbeing of our participants is paramount," Mr Redin said.

"This increase will allow the jockeys to manage their weight at a time when their ability to ride at the current weight levels is being restricted by actions we have had to take to minimise risk against COVID19."

The 2kg increase is in accordance with SAJA's request to increase the minimum weight from 54kg to 56kg and takes effect for all races at all race meetings with the meeting at Morphettville Parks on Saturday 28 March 2020 being the first meeting that the changes come into effect.

Media enquiries: Alexandra Green, Michels Warren 0418 608 038 or agreen@micwar.com.au

Post categories

Racing SA - Media Release Racing SA - Latest News