The Jockeys vs. Jamaica Hospital

While watching the great races at Gulfstream today, I heard that the last four races at Aqueduct were canceled. I looked outside and there was no storm. I checked the internet and there was no report of any events that would cancel racing. It wasn't until checking the net after an evening out that I found the problem. Apparently, the jockeys have not been happy with the treatment they heave been receiving at Jamaica Hospital after accidents on the track.

Jose Santos had a particularly bad experience this week that lead to a discussion between the jocks and NYRA on what to do when a jockey has to be transported to the hospital. The riders were under the impression after this conference that they would be able to request to be taken to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset. When Norberto Arroyo was hurt today and taken to Jamaica Hospital against his will, the jockeys decided not to ride anymore. The Sunday card was also canceled by NYRA.

I have no experiences with Jamaica hospital, but I have been working in the New York healthcare field for more than 11 years and I can certainly agree that Jamaica Hospital does not have the best reputation. It's not the worst hospital in the area, but I would rather my kids be taken to one of the many great hospitals in the region, such as North Shore. I admit that I may be biased here. Both of my kids were born there. My mother and my wife's grandmother were cured of there cancers there. And my father and father-in-law have had successful heart procedures there. It's a great hospital and if a jockey wants to take the extra 15 minutes to get there, let him go there.

The jockeys risk their bodies every day for our entertainment. When their bodies get broken, they deserve the best care available. I hope NYRA gives the colony the right to choose where to get that care.