Nigel Payne Named Chairman of Professional Jockeys Association

Nigel Payne is to become the chairman at the Professional Jockeys Association.

Payne, Aintree’s former press officer and current chief executive of the Horseracing Sponsors Association, will succeed Rod Street who stepped down last year.

PJA chief executive Paul Struthers said: “The Board of the PJA has been seeking to appoint a new chairman and we are delighted that Nigel Payne has agreed to fill this important position.

“I have personally worked closely with Nigel for many years and have always valued his opinions, advice and wisdom which he has gained during a career in the betting and horseracing industries spanning almost four decades.

“I know that he will offer the PJA, its Board and our members the soundest of guidance.”

Payne, who was instrumental in the inception of the PJA ‘Lesters’ awards and formed the syndicate that owned subsequent Grand National winner Earth Summit, said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been asked to join the Board of the Professional Jockeys Association and to become its new chairman from October.

“I am looking forward very much to working with PJA chief executive Paul Struthers and the entire Board of the Association and utilising the knowledge and experience that I have gained over many years in the horseracing industry for the benefit of all jockeys.”