A new subsidy and bursary programme to encourage qualified riders (amateur jockeys) into racing was established by the George Mernagh Memorial Fund (GMMF) on Friday. The programme is open to all riders with the appropriate experience who aspire to become a qualified rider. Horse Racing Ireland's education, training, and people welfare division Equuip will manage both programmes.
All aspiring jockeys who take out their qualified riders license will qualify for the GMMF subsidy, as well as a number of bursaries that cover the cost of a licences, helmet and back protector. The George Mernagh Memorial Fund was established in honour of the former jockey and Tattersalls Ireland Chief Executive who passed away from cancer in July 2011.
“George Mernagh was a shining example of someone who maximised the opportunity which becoming a qualified rider offers,” Richard Pugh, Tattersalls Ireland Director and former qualified rider, said. “Following a period as a qualified rider in point-to-points, an inevitably successful career as a professional followed. From there his career progressed further to becoming the Managing Director of Tattersalls Ireland.
“In no other sport can you change in the same changing rooms and compete with professionals on the very same playing pitch whilst retaining amateur status, so it seems fitting that this initiative, developed in his memory, will afford the opportunity for many more riders to enjoy the QR benefits both in the saddle and beyond.”
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