Irish jockeys healthier for Covid closure of saunas, says association secretary

Jockeys in Ireland are healthier and better for the closure of racecourse saunas, according to Irish Jockeys Association secretary Andrew Coonan, who has called for the 2lb weight allowance introduced in the early stages of the pandemic to remain in place.

Racecourse saunas have not been in operation since the sport moved behind closed doors in March 2020, with Irish racing authorities raising weights by 2lb as a result.

The issue was discussed during last week's Irish Jockeys Association AGM, also attended by IHRB senior medical officer Dr Jennifer Pugh.