Rules Of Racing Adopted By The Jockey Club 1909
$750
[96] pp.
Press of Ahern & Randel
1909
5 3/4" x 4 1/4
In 1909, the Jockey Club of New York published its Rules of Racing, which served as the governing principles for thoroughbred horse racing in the United States. The extensive set of rules covered everything from the eligibility of horses and jockeys to race-day procedures and the classification of infractions.
Context of the 1909 rules
The Jockey Club was founded in 1894 to regulate thoroughbred racing in New York and other states. It acted as a stabilizing force after a period of scandal and inconsistent rules in American racing during the late 1800s.
By 1909, New York's racing scene was in decline due to the Hart-Agnew anti-gambling laws passed in 1908. These laws effectively shut down most racing in the state until they were repealed in 1913. The 1909 rules were published during a transitional period for the sport.
Key regulations from the 1909 rules
Eligibility and registration
Registration: All participating horses had to be officially registered in the American Stud Book, which was maintained by the Jockey Club.
Jockey licensing: Jockeys had to be licensed by the Jockey Club and were required to be at least 16 years old.
Race-day procedures
Race entry: The rules detailed the process for entering horses into races, as well as the fees and forfeits associated with entries.
Pre-race parade: Just as today, horses were paraded in front of the stands before a race. Contemporary accounts noted the impressive display of the horses in their owners' stable colors.
Starting the race: In 1909, races were still started using a flag or a bell, as starting gates had not yet been widely adopted. The field was required to be "dispatched from the starting gate" at the appropriate time.
Infractions and penalties
Foul riding: Jockeys were expected to maintain a straight course and could be penalized for sharp turns or bumping that interfered with another horse. A jockey found guilty of a foul could face disqualification, suspension, or fines.
Doping: The rules of the era prohibited artificial methods like performance-enhancing drugs and electrical stimulants. While enforcement was difficult, electric prods were specifically banned.
Non-performance: The club had the authority to penalize trainers or jockeys for horses that appeared not to be trying their best.
Governance and enforcement
Stewards and judges: The Jockey Club appointed stewards and racing officials to oversee each race meeting. These officials were responsible for interpreting and enforcing the rules.
Reciprocity: One of the goals of the rules was to promote consistency across different racetracks. Violations at one track could affect a horse or jockey's ability to race at another.
Significance
The Rules of Racing Adopted by The Jockey Club was a landmark document that helped standardize and legitimize thoroughbred racing in the United States. While the 1909 version reflects an earlier era of the sport, it laid the foundation for the more modern regulations that are still enforced by racing jurisdictions today.