Classic-winning rider PJ McDonald becomes PJA Flat president

PJ McDonald, who enjoyed one of the finest moments of his career when steering Laurens to Classic glory in last month's Prix de Diane, is the new Flat president of the Professional Jockeys Association.

McDonald has been elected by the PJA board and replaces Steve Drowne, who retired last year and now works as a stipendiary steward for the BHA.

A former jump jockey who won the Scottish Grand National on Hot Weld in 2007, McDonald switched to the Flat a year later and his career has gone from strength to strength, culminating in a Group 1 hat-trick on the Karl Burke-trained Laurens, who also won last year's Fillies' Mile and the Prix Saint-Alary in May.

Watch PJ McDonald win the Fillies' Mile on Laurens

The 36-year-old, who joined the PJA board eight years ago and has been its northern Flat safety officer, said: "I feel privileged to have been asked to stand as PJA Flat president and look forward to assisting them and my colleagues under both codes with current and future issues within the industry."

Paul Struthers, the PJA's chief executive, said: "PJ already takes an active role in the PJA through his position on the board and in his role as northern Flat safety officer.

"I've no doubt he'll do a fantastic job for us and our members, just as Steve Drowne did before him."

York supremo William Derby also praised McDonald's contributions over the years.

He said: "York has worked really closely with PJ over the last eight years and he has been instrumental in ensuring a continued excellent relationship with the jockeys. His advice and guidance in designing and delivering the new jockeys' facilities at York in 2014 was invaluable and is a lasting legacy of his time as our liaison jockey.

"We wish him well in his new role and continue to look forward to seeing him ride on the Knavesmire."

Following some recent retirements the PJA has a number of board vacancies for current jockeys. Any member interested in joining the board should contact the PJA.

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