Michael Lyon

In what is believed a first such program in the country, California's exercise riders will soon be required to pass an "Exercise Rider Certification" course to remain eligible for coverage under the state racing industry's Post Time self-insured workers' compensation program. The course consists of seven upper body, lower body and cardiovascular exercises, prefaced upon the British National Racing College's jockey fitness test. Exercise riders have until Mar. 31 to pass the exam. After that date, "Post Time members will only be able to employ Post Time certified Exercise Riders...