Hall of Fame Jockey Mike Smith Appointed to HISA's Racetrack Safety Committee
In a significant move to bolster the safety protocols within Thoroughbred racing, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has welcomed legendary jockey Mike Smith to its esteemed racetrack safety standing committee. Smith, a true icon in the sport, brings a wealth of experience and an unparalleled perspective, promising to enrich the committee's mission of safeguarding equine athletes and their human counterparts. His appointment arrives as the committee bids farewell to another luminary, John Velazquez, ushering in a new phase of leadership and insight.
Celebrated Jockey Mike Smith Joins HISA's Racetrack Safety Committee to Advance Equine Welfare
Lexington, KY – August 3, 2026 – The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) officially announced on Monday the integration of Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith into its pivotal racetrack safety standing committee. Smith, an acclaimed figure in the world of horse racing with a remarkable record of over 5,800 career victories, stands as one of only twelve jockeys to achieve the coveted Triple Crown in Thoroughbred racing, a feat he accomplished with the magnificent Justify. He is also only the second jockey this millennium to join this elite group.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Smith remarked, "I am deeply honored to join HISA’s racetrack safety standing committee and eager to contribute to the ongoing efforts dedicated to protecting our magnificent horses and the devoted individuals who care for them. I anticipate a productive collaboration with the committee members to fortify the future of Thoroughbred racing for generations to come."
Smith's illustrious career, which began in 1982, is studded with numerous accolades, including three Belmont Stakes, two Preakness Stakes, and two Kentucky Derby triumphs. He also holds a record-breaking 27 Breeders’ Cup titles. His exceptional talent was recognized with the Eclipse Award for outstanding jockey in both 1993 and 1994, leading to his induction into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2003. A long-standing and respected member of the Jockeys' Guild, Smith was elected co-chair in 2018, a position he continues to hold alongside the newly appointed Javier Castellano.
Beyond his racing prowess, Smith is widely recognized for his exemplary character and leadership. His honors include the George Woolf Memorial Award, bestowed upon him by his fellow jockeys, as well as the Mike Venezia Memorial Award and the Laffit Pincay Jr. Award.
Dr. Susan Stover, who chairs the racetrack safety standing committee, conveyed her profound satisfaction regarding Smith's inclusion: "We are immensely honored to welcome Mike to our committee. His unparalleled insight and unique perspective will be instrumental in shaping regulations that underscore our unwavering dedication to safety within the sport."
Smith assumes the position previously held by fellow Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez. Lisa Lazarus, CEO of HISA, extended her gratitude to Velazquez, stating, "As a founding member of the racetrack safety standing committee, John tirelessly dedicated countless hours to reviewing existing regulations, meticulously analyzing public feedback, and thoughtfully considering diverse constituent testimonials to support the development of our sport's inaugural uniform safety standards. All committee members volunteer their time, and the industry owes them an extraordinary debt of gratitude for their steadfast commitment and specialized expertise." Dr. Stover echoed these sentiments, thanking Velazquez for his invaluable contributions.
The racetrack safety standing committee plays a crucial advisory role to the HISA Board of Directors, guiding the formulation and upkeep of the racetrack safety program, including recommendations for track accreditation. All accreditation decisions are ultimately subject to approval by the HISA Board of Directors.
Mike Smith's addition to the HISA racetrack safety standing committee represents a significant stride towards fostering a safer and more integrity-driven environment in horse racing. His vast experience as a competitor, coupled with his proven leadership and dedication, provides an invaluable resource for developing and implementing robust safety protocols. This move underscores HISA's commitment to leveraging the wisdom of seasoned professionals to protect both the magnificent animals and the dedicated individuals who are the heart of this sport. It is a testament to the ongoing evolution of horse racing, prioritizing welfare and integrity above all else, ensuring a more secure future for all participants.