Jockeys advertise their cause

Jockeys yesterday entered the battle for a slice of the lucrative sponsorship market by launching their own campaign for personal backing at race meetings. Richard Dunwoody and Lanfranco Dettori led the call for the freedom to wear sponsors' names on riding breeches, boots and polo necks. They are determined to win their case now that owners are free to display advertising on their silks.

The Jockeys' Association's secretary, Michael Caulfield, said: "It is five years since we raised the question of jockeys' sponsorship and our patience is wearing a little thin.

"We have had discussions with the British Horseracing Board and we would like to continue with a constructive dialogue in the hope of bringing new sponsors into the sport."

Saab sponsors Richard Dunwoody, but he is not permitted to wear their logo at meetings. "When you consider how short the career of a jump jockey can be, it is imperative that we are allowed, even encouraged, to attract sponsors," he said.