Dr Jerry Hill to Step Down as BHA’s Chief Medical Adviser After a Decade of Transformational Service
Dr Hill, who joined the BHA in 2014, has been instrumental in shifting the sport’s medical approach to one that treats jockeys as elite athletes, introducing reforms that prioritise mental health, physiotherapy, nutrition, and conditioningas essential elements of care.
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed that Dr Jerry Hill MBE, its long-serving Chief Medical Adviser, will retire later this year after more than a decade at the forefront of jockey welfare and medical standards in British racing.
Dr Hill, who joined the BHA in 2014, has been instrumental in shifting the sport’s medical approach to one that treats jockeys as elite athletes, introducing reforms that prioritise mental health, physiotherapy, nutrition, and conditioningas essential elements of care.
“It has been a privilege to work in a sport where the welfare of its people is taken so seriously,” said Dr Hill. “I’ve greatly valued the opportunity to help place the health of riders at the heart of the sport’s medical care.”
Hill’s tenure was marked by collaboration and innovation. He played a pivotal role in developing enhanced on-course medical and physio services and worked closely with bodies including the Injured Jockeys Fund, PJA, RCA, AJA, and PPA to improve the daily lives and long-term wellbeing of riders.
He also made history during the pandemic. Dr Hill led the creation of racing’s COVID-19 return-to-action protocols, ensuring the sport became the first in the UK to return to professional competition post-lockdown. This contribution earned him several honours, including an MBE in the Queen’s 2021 Birthday Honours, the George Ennor Trophy for Outstanding Achievement, and a Presidents’ Special Award at the Lesters.
Previously, Hill served as Senior Racecourse Medical Officer at Lingfield Park, a Squad Doctor for England’s football teams, and was part of the London 2012 Olympic medical team.
As the BHA begins the search for his successor, Dr Hill will remain in post to support the transition and oversee the induction of the new Chief Medical Adviser.
BHA Acting CEO Brant Dunshea praised Hill’s contribution:
“Jerry has made a significant and lasting impact on British racing. His passion, knowledge and leadership helped shape a progressive approach to jockey health and medical care.”
British racing loses a transformative figure — but his legacy, and the systems he helped shape, are built to last.
