Dr Peter Hester, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine and currently practices at the Lexington Clinic in Lexington, has been appointed national medical director for the Safety and Integrity Authority. safety of Horseracing, the organization announced October 11 as national health director, Hester will focus on the health and wellbeing of riders, working to reduce the risk of injury injuries, including concussion, as well as improving health care services for jockeys and sourcing affordable health insurance for jockeys and their families.
“I have had the wonderful privilege of working with so many racers and gymnasts during my training as they recover from injuries and surgery,” says Hester. “I have the utmost respect for the sport that their job entails and I’m used to the risks associated with the profession. It’s been an honor to have the opportunity to work with HISA as we implement new policies to protect and serve these brave athletes.”
Hester has served on HISA’s Track Safety Standing Committee as an independent member, but will step down on the committee at the start of his new role. Hester will continue to practice as an orthopedic surgeon at the Lexington Clinic while serving as HISA’s national medical director starting October 28.
Hester completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania before attending medical school and completing a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Kentucky. He pursued a Fellowship in Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery at The Hughston Clinic and has been an orthopedic surgeon at the Lexington Clinic since 2002.
“Prior to HISA, the Thoroughbred racing industry lacked consistent safety standards for racers, meaning that their health protocols and minimum safety standards varied considerably between the racing regions of the country. state to region,” said HISA Executive Director Lisa Lazarus. “By setting minimum safety standards and appointing a national chief medical officer, HISA is working to make the sport safer every day for all participants regardless of their competition. This is not a one-size-fits-all process and we are committed to working with each track individually as we navigate the transition to a more focused approach together I have no doubt that Dr. Hester will be an incredible asset and advocate for runners and athletes across the country.”
Hester has deep roots in racing. He grew up in Garden City, NY, and his passion for purebred motorsport developed while working at Belmont Park for Dr. William O. Reed, a veterinary surgeon. famous for horses. While studying medicine, Hester also worked as a night watchman and farmer on the Ballindaggin farm.
In his new role, Hester will continue HISA’s commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of racehorses in collaboration with each race’s medical directors and subject matter experts. other topic. According to HISA, every driver is required to have their medical information on hand at all times in the event of an accident and must undergo annual physical exams and basic concussion tests to prove they are in good health. healthy enough to drive. HISA has also implemented uniform standards for vehicle concussion and return protocols, in addition to requiring racetracks to provide insurance if state regulations do not allow riders to have access. with workers’ compensation. HISA will continue to build and improve these protocols, including listening to and working directly with jockeys and others in the field.
This press release has been edited and styled by the BloodHorse Staff.
