University of Kentucky Developing Concussion Protocol for Jockeys

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The University of Kentucky is developing the first ever concussion protocol for jockeys.

The university announced a three-year study on Monday in partnership with the Jockeys’ Guild and several thoroughbred organizations. Carl Mattacola, director of the graduate athletic training program at the university’s College of Health Sciences, will oversee the study at all of Kentucky’s thoroughbred racetracks: Turfway Park, Keeneland Race Course, Churchill Downs, Ellis Park and Kentucky Downs.

Jockeys at these tracks will be tested before races. After a fall, they will be tested again to compare the two scores. Most major sports in the U.S. have protocols for managing concussions.

Mattacola said he wants to give jockeys who suffer head injuries the best science has to offer. He said gathering the data is the first step to developing a concussion protocol.