A RESEARCH project which aims to find out more about the long-term effects of concussion on jockeys is seeking a minimum of €250,000 in funding.

The appeal is being made by Dr Adrian McGoldrick on behalf of the International Concussion and Head Injury Research Foundation (ICHIRF), of which he is a director.

The study was initially launched in 2019 but had to be deferred due to Covid. Participants will be asked to complete an online questionnaire and to attend the Beacon Hospital in Dublin for assessment and examination. Accommodation will be provided where necessary.

This is the only study of its kind in the world, involving Britain, Ireland and Australia, and it caters for both male and female participants, with other studies having concentrated on men only. It is with the help of volunteers that the initiative hopes to determine future protocols and guidelines that will best protect and serve all those participating in contact sports.

The focus of the project will be on retired professional and amateur jockeys between the ages of 50 and 84. Jockeys have amongst the highest rates of concussion in sports, and both males and females are exposed to the same dangers.

The project has already received €50,000 from Irish Injured Jockeys. The Irish arm of this project requires between €250,000 and €500,000 per year to operate, with each screening of retired jockeys and the control group of volunteers costing in excess of €5,000 per person. Those interested in supporting the project, either with funding or as a volunteer, are encouraged to get in touch by emailing Dr McGoldrick or by visiting the ICHIRF website.

Saliva study

ICHIRF Ireland has also recently completed a saliva study on jockeys, looking at biomarkers for concussion. This study was done in conjunction with the Beacon Hospital and Dublin City University. Dr McGoldrick stated that they were ably assisted by the Irish Jockeys Association in recruiting the riders, with samples being taken by Dr McGoldrick and his colleague Dr Jennifer Pugh over the last year.

This study is similar to one carried out during the recent Olympic Games by Team GB cyclists.

ICHIRF Ireland has also being assisting America’s Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority and The Jockeys Guild to organise their first conference on concussion, safety and wellness, which will be held in Kentucky from October 9th-11th.

This conference is expected to represent a major step forward in jockey welfare and education in the US.

A visit to Ashford Stud, kindly organised by Coolmore America, will form part of the programme.

Email: adrianmcgoldrick4@gmail.com

Web: ichirf.org/volunteer-now