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Bassett Conducts Tour of Jockeys Room Holding, with justification, that so long as the rules of racing require that jockeys be locked up during the afternoons that they are riding, they should be quartered in pleasant and comfortable surroundings, Ike Bassett, manager of the, central division of the Jockeys Guild, maintains a constant drive to secure adequate quarters for the riders he represents. Contrary to some opinions, Bassetts duties are not confined to arguments . with management. He conducted us personally through the local jockey room, pointed out its advantages arid was as pleased with it as if it were his own. It is Bassetts contention that it is a good investment on the part of management to provide a pleasant atmosphere for the riders. He maintains that the psychological effect on the jockeys is reflected in their attitude when other -problems arise. The crowding of some 60 jockeys, a dozen valets, porters and others into cramped quarters with poor facilities is not conducive to good relationship. Space is of prime importance together with recreational facilities, and Bassett points ouj that the latter are recognized everywhere in social studies as »a most effective deterrent to delinquency. Bassett and jockey Nick Jemas were quick to credit the many desirable features of recently constructed quarters about the country, and it is planned to produce a brochure of these satisfactory conditions to be used as suggestions for similar construction where it is required.
