#BettingPeople: AODHAGÁN CONLON
Interview: AODHAGÁN CONLON Aodhagán Conlon rode as a jump jockey for nine years and had 36 winners under rules in the UK. Always fascinated with the psychological aspect of racing, on retirement from the sport, Aodhagán went on to complete a Psychology degree at Bath University with first class honours. He has continued his education with a masters in Sports and Exercise Psychology and snow studying for a PhD. Alongside his academic work, he is working in practical settings with a range of athletes including delivering workshops at the British Horse Racing Authority jockey training seminars and as a Performance Consultant for the Professional Jockey Association. Following the tragic death of Liam Treadwell, jockey mental well-being has been in the spotlight. In this three-part interview, Aodhagán explains why the life of a jockey is so tough, what is being done to help individuals and what more there is still to do as well as pinpointing symptoms and telling us where help is available. Meeting Aodhagán Conlon.
AODHAGÁN CONLON (part 1 of 3)
In the first of three parts, Aodhagán recaps his career as a professional jockey and explains how his former life, massively helps him in his studies and practical work now. We also discuss the challenges facing jockeys and how it is a much tougher lifestyle than many people realise. Aodhagán also tells us of his own struggles as a jockey.
AODHAGÁN CONLON (part 2 of 3)
Here Aodhagán assesses how well the horse racing industry deals with jockey mental well being and what more can perhaps be done. He also explains why some of the recent criticism of the Injured Jockeys Fund and Professional Jockey Association in relation to mental health issues is, in his opinion, unwarranted.
AODHAGÁN CONLON (part 3 of 3)
Aodhagán knew Liam Treadwell and pays tribute to him as a ‘great person’. His untimely death has certainly bought jockey mental well-being to the fore. Here, Aodhagán talks through some of the signs to look out for for those who may be struggling and where to find support.
AODHAGÁN CONLON #BettingPeople PODCAST
Contacts
Professional Jockeys Association
Paul Struthers: 07966 590105
Izzy Desailly: 07771 656396
Aodhagán Conlon: 07815 016900
Injured Jockeys Fund
Oaksey House: 01488 674242
Jack Berry House: 01653 602090
Peter O’Sullevan House: 01638 662284
Sporting Chance
24/7 helpline: 077780 008877
All calls will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence
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