Jockeys, Tracks Agree on Contract

A strike by the nation’s thoroughbred jockeys apparently was averted Monday night when the Jockeys’ Guild reached a tentative agreement on a contract with the Thoroughbred Racing Assns.

Guild spokesman Brian Meara said the tentative agreement will result in the cancellation of a walkout by riders on Wednesday. Final details of the contract will be worked out by today, he said.

The guild advised riders to accept regular mounts for Wednesday.

At issue were health and accident insurance for the riders. Also discussed was whether jockeys are entitled to a share of racing’s television revenue. Previously, jockeys waived any claim to television revenue in exchange for the health and accident insurance, which was paid by the tracks.