Racing officials are confident an iconic NSW picnic race meeting will go ahead despite threats of industrial action from jockeys.
Amateur riders involved in Wednesday’s Bong Bong Cup picnic meeting were reportedly planning to strike over a pay dispute.
But a Racing NSW statement said the jockeys had told the governing body on Tuesday they would be riding at the famous NSW southern highlands fixture.
“Our stewards have contacted all the riders that have engagements at the meeting and each has given their assurance they intend to fulfil their obligations,” Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys said.
“We can only take them to be true to their word.”
Mr V’landys said he was made aware last week of jockeys wanting an increase in riding fees.
“In good faith we had already given the amateur riders an increase of 12.5 per cent to their riding fees when the matter was brought to my attention,” he said.
AAP TURF
