This episode offers a sobering examination of the catastrophic fires that have ravaged parts of California, particularly focusing on their impact on horse racing . Peter Thomas Fornatale and Shannon Kelly engage with Jodie Vella-Gregory and Kristina Schulz, who provide firsthand accounts of the crisis, detailing the urgency and fear experienced during the height of the fires. The conversation reveals the immediate response measures implemented at Santa Anita, where a crisis plan was swiftly executed to ensure the safety of horses and personnel alike. From there, Jodie Vella-Gregory highlights the 1/st team’s initial response to the crisis and how it organically evolved into a way to help the community as a whole.

Throughout the show, listeners learn about the amazing job the 1/st team did in delivering crucial support to affected individuals, detailing the various forms of assistance available. Shannon Kelly also informs listeners about the role of the Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation in the crisis so far and the recovery yet to come.

This episode not only highlights the challenges posed by natural disasters but also showcases the strength and unity of the racing community as they rally to support one another.

Takeaways:

• The ongoing crisis in California due to fires has deeply impacted the racing community.
• Shannon Kelly discussed the scope of assistance provided by the Jockey Club Safety Net foundation.
• Eyewitness accounts reveal the harrowing experiences of those affected by the California wildfires.
• The collaboration among various organizations showcases the racing community’s commitment to support each other during crises.
• The Safety Net foundation is prepared to assist individuals in the racing industry for the long term.
• Efforts to help the broader community during the crisis reflect the racing community’s strong ties and responsibility.

On the latest episode of the On the Lead Podcast, presented by The Jockey Club and In the Money Media, host Shannon Kelly and guest co-host Dan Tordjman have an open and honest conversation regarding Jockey Mental Health.

The discussion starts with Donna Brothers, a former jockey and long-time NBC Sports racing analyst and commentator. Donna is a member of the recently-created Jockey Mental Health Steering Committee, which was established by HISA and The Jockey’s Guild. Along with Donna, we delve into the unique factors that contribute to jockey mental and physical health, successes of the initiative to date, and her hopes for the future.

Next, Nathan Horrocks — a former jump racing rider himself and now filmmaker and co-founder of JockeyCam— discusses what inspired him to produce his moving film ‘The Fall’.

Horrocks also chats about his broader goals related to education and fan engagement through use of media which depicts the world of horse racing through the eyes of jockeys.

Finally, jockey Trevor McCarthy speaks openly about his physical and mental struggles, his decision to step away from riding to concentrate on his family and continuing to be an advocate for his community.

Watch

The Fall: https://youtu.be/49krW3RjT5Y?si=1DICTi0xe23HARLA

The Fall (Spanish Subtitles): https://youtu.be/Jj14Z6mg0wM?si=NgILuw3OQWO8RaFc

Learn About & Support Industry Charities:

Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund: https://pdjf.org

The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation: https://tjcfoundation.org

Racetrack Chaplaincy of America: https://rtcanational.org

Presented by The Jockey Club

On the latest episode of the On the Lead Podcast, presented by The Jockey Club and In the Money Media, host Shannon Kelly brings us in before welcoming co-host PTF. Laura Barillaro, CFO of The Jockey Club, joins them for the intro to talk about her journey as a woman in racing who rose to a position of prominence.

The first official guest is Stella Thayer, president of Tampa Bay Downs who tells the story of how she got involved in racing and describes her reaction to winning the Pillar of the Turf award from the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame.

Next up, Jessica Paquette joins to tell us about how she became a racing fan and what made her want to go on to make history as the first female announcer to call a Grade 1 race. She also shares her experience and advice about dealing with trolls on social media.

Last but not least, Shona Rotondo shares her story of starting an all-female company, Ground Slam Social (now GSS The Agency) and how they became a powerful player in horse racing marketing. She also shares her vision for the Horse Racing Women's Summit and offers some advice to those looking to become allies.