1. Regional Manager, The Jockeys’ Guild
Race Rails
Jeff Johnston
Regional Manager, The Jockeys’ Guild
June 12, 2017

2. ARCI Model Rule
DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF ASSOCIATIONS (RACE MEET LICENSEES) -
CHAPTER
ARCI PURPOSE
ARCI GENERAL DUTY
ARCI FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
A. INSURER OF THE RACE MEETING
B. BOND REQUIREMENTS
C. FINANCIAL REPORTS
D. STAKES ESCROW REQUIREMENTS
E. CHARITY RACE DAYS
ARCI FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
A. FACILITIES FOR PATRONS AND LICENSEES
B. OFFICIALS' STANDS
C. AUDIO AND VISUAL EQUIPMENT
D. RACETRACK
E. RAILS -- NEW RAIL INSTALLATIONS AFTER JANUARY 1, 2017 SHALL COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATIONS:
F. STARTING GATES

3. New ARCI Mode Rule Language
E. Rails --
New rail installations after January 1, 2017 shall comply with the following
specifications:
(1) Racetracks, including turf tracks, shall have inside and outside rails, including gap
rails, designed, constructed and maintained to provide for the safety of jockeys
and horses. This means that they shall have structural integrity, free of cracks,
breaks, splinters and contain no exposed sharp edges or pins or joint protrusions.
Wood rail systems are not permitted. Existing race rail shall be inspected by the
Commission each year. Race rail deemed unsafe by the Commission must be
corrected. Prior to installing a new rail system, racetracks will confirm with the
Commission that any new rail is approved.
(2) The top of the rail on dirt and turf courses must be at least 38 inches but not more
than 50 inches above the top of the cushion. The inside rail posts shall have a
gooseneck shape of no less than 15 inches with a maximum of 24 inches,
measured horizontally from the trackside of the gooseneck post to a point directly
below the front edge of the trackside rail; the inside rail overhang shall have a
continuous, smooth cover. The outside rail shares the same height as the inside
rail and must have a minimum of a 12 inch and a maximum of 18 inch gooseneck
shape.
(3) All rails for dirt and turf courses must be constructed of materials designed to
withstand the impact of a horse running at a gallop.

4. Significant Changes Old language: New language:
The top of the rail must be at least 38 inches but not more than 42 inches above the top of the cushion.
The inside rail shall have no less than a 24-inch overhang with a continuous smooth cover.
New language:
The top of the rail on dirt and turf courses must be at least 38 inches but not more than 50 inches above the top of the cushion.
The inside rail posts shall have a gooseneck shape of no less than 15 inches with a maximum of 24 inches, measured horizontally from the trackside of the gooseneck post to a point directly below the front edge of the trackside rail; the inside rail overhang shall have a continuous, smooth cover.

5. Effects of Changes Commission oversight – Structural integrity
Allows for new rail systems that are taller.
In theory, horses can see them better
Less likely to jump or fall over
Wood rails are not permitted.
New language adds specifications for turf tracks. (previously weren’t mentioned)
Requires Gooseneck
Requires Outside rails

6. Reasons for modifications
New materials – uPVC
PVC is still not allowed, but technology has improved so new uPVC won’t break or splinter.
Taller, flexible fences have a successful history in Europe and Australia.
Some moveable rails have design flaws and create dangerous situations.
New designs allow for fences that are safe, yet easily moveable which is well suited to turf racing.

7. Not Acceptable

9. Acceptable
Global Barrier Systems - Mawsafe
Duralock

10. Old vs. New

11. Plastic Rail vs. “Safety Rail”
There is no substitute for a “Safety Rail”!
Examples
Fontana
Arlington Park
Canterbury
Parts are needed
Horsemen’s Tack and Equipment
Rider Protection System

12. Horsemen’s Tack and Equipment Rider Protection System
Stationary Rail
Installed at Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Gulfstream, Prairie Meadows, Indiana Grand, Belterra Park, Lone Star Park, Fairgrounds et.al.
Designed and tested for safety of horse and rider

13. Safety Rail Regular Rail Safety Rail
trim.A D7-B8D5-57C370C83573.MOV

14. Turf Racing

15. Turf Rails: Old vs. New Old New
Shorter, More Rigid design
Taller, Flexible Design
Kick out uprights!!!

16. Other Considerations
One size does not fit all

17. Recommendations
Stationary rails should be “Safety Rails” with a smooth continuous cover, such as the Fontana or the Horsemen’s Tack & Equipment.
Moveable rails should not have supports that could cause injury if landed on.
Any structure within close proximity to the rail should be covered with padding.
Installations should include consultation with jockeys and horsemen

18. Thank You