Category: WiR Features

This week is Fertility Awareness Week and this year’s initiative highlights the mental health and wellbeing implications of fertility issues. We’d like to thank this member for sharing their story in the hope that it helps and supports someone else on their journey. Contact any committee member if you would like to contribute your own member story on any women’s issue.

Member Story

“When are you having kids then?” I dreaded hearing those words. Married for 4 years and over 30, it seemed like the world and his wife thought my sex life should be a matter of public record.

Infertility is one of those subjects that no one likes to talk about and if you do bring it up you are often met with an uncomfortable silence or well-meaning but, frankly, patronising advice – “Have you just tried relaxing?” was one such pearl of wisdom offered to me.

I am one of the lucky ones, thanks to our wonderful NHS I have been able to have two children but plenty of women, including women I met along my fertility journey who are now close friends, are not as fortunate. According to the NHS, 1 in 7 couples will encounter some type of fertility problem during their journey to parenthood. The stats also tell us that 8 out of 10 couples will conceive, if the woman is under 40, within 2 years as long as they are having regular sex.

But what happens if those months and years go by and you’ve yet to have any success?

My journey on the infertility road began when I failed to have a period in over a year despite coming off hormonal contraception. I was sent for a multitude of tests resulting in a diagnosis of PCOS – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. I’d never heard of it before, but research told me that it is believed to affect as many as 1 in 10 women. Reading the long list of symptoms, it became clear that I’d been showing signs of the condition since puberty (irregular periods, frequent acne breakouts, unwanted hair, etc). As it is only in recent years that doctors have learned more about it, my symptoms had been dismissed at the time as just “one of those things” and I’d been put on the contraceptive pill at 16.

Whilst the NHS staff I came into contact with were empathetic and unfailingly supportive, especially when I cried on their shoulders through countless appointments, you can’t get away from the indignity of the tests you have to go through – internal scans (sarcastically christened “DildoCam” by one of my fellow “barrens”, as we referred to ourselves), an HSG (where dye is injected into your womb and fallopian tubes to check for blockages – not the most pleasant experience I’ve ever had) and a hysteroscopy (camera inspection of the womb) under general anaesthetic for me, plus countless sperm tests for my husband to make sure he didn’t have issues too.

Infertility is an emotional rollercoaster with occasional highs and soul-destroying lows – no matter how many times you see that “negative” pregnancy test, it still hits you like a punch to the stomach. And all this time you are putting on a brave face to the outside world and smiling “happily” when friends/family/colleagues tell you they are expecting.

Society still seems to think of infertility as taboo and almost shameful – I mean you’re warned about how easy it is to get pregnant during Sex-Ed at school right? Reproduction – it’s a fundamental part of life, and here I am failing at it. Failing at being a woman. At least, that is how it felt to me.

As time went on and appointments became part of my routine I was able to see the funny side, occasionally. If you can’t laugh you’ll cry and I’d already done a lot of that! Having worked in racing and bloodstock for so long I was able to joke with the nurses at the fertility clinic that I knew now how the broodmares felt – poked and prodded, blood samples taken, internal scans to check the number of follicles on my ovaries and injections of hormones to get my cycle going. At least I didn’t have to stand in the stocks!

2.5 years after my diagnosis and after several failed treatment types, I finally conceived on my third month of Ovulation Induction (OI) treatment – similar to IVF in that you have to inject yourself with daily hormones to trigger follicle growth, tracked with scans every few days to make sure you are not overstimulating and then given a trigger injection to force ovulation. At least the act of conception was done the old-fashioned way.

About 18 months later I started the process again for my second child and thankfully, as we knew what my issues were, we were able to jump straight back into OI, after my husband and I had undergone some routine health checks and waited for an available slot at the busy fertility clinic. Again, I conceived on the third cycle of treatment and 3 years and 1 month to the day after Child #1 had arrived, Child #2 made a dramatic entrance into the world – but that is another story.

I was lucky in many ways, not just in having a supportive husband and a handful of close friends to confide in, but once I knew the path I had to go down I informed my employer who couldn’t have been more accommodating in allowing me the necessary time off to attend appointments, and the occasional duvet day when the emotional toll began to get on top of me.

I am more than happy to talk about my experiences now, but in the depths of it all you can feel like you are the only one walking this road. So next time you start to ask a woman that question – “When are you having kids?”, just pause for a moment. She might just be dreading hearing it.

Help and support

For information and support on your own fertility journey you can visit Racing Home here to read advice and guidance. Alternatively just type ‘fertility’ into the search bar on racinghome.org.uk.

My name is Ariana Sienkiewicz, and I had the pleasure of attending the Racing Foundation’s conference on October 2nd at Ascot Racecourse. It was an incredibly insightful experience that gave me a fresh perspective on the racing industry and its future.

The discussions about advancing welfare, fostering diversity, and building a more sustainable sport were especially inspiring.

It was clear how dedicated the British racing industry and Racing Foundation is to driving positive change, and it was fantastic to connect with so many people who share a deep commitment to the future of racing. This experience has motivated me to be part of this important work and I am grateful to Women in Racing and the Racing Foundation for making the funded tickets available to members.

About Ariana

I’ve been around horses for most of my life, but it’s only in the last few years that I’ve managed to turn this passion into a career. This year, I achieved a major milestone by earning my jockey license in Poland – a dream that I’ve worked toward with dedication and a lot of hard work. As an exercise rider and newly licensed jockey, I’m eager to deepen my knowledge of the racing industry and continue developing my skills. Events like this conference are invaluable for building connections and gaining insights that will help me make a meaningful impact in racing. I’m excited to see what the future holds and to be part of a sport that has been such a big part of my life.

Here we chart the progress of women in racing over time.

You can find out more at our AGM in October 2024 – click here for details.

Please do let us know if we have missed anything by emailing info@womeninracing.co.uk.

We’d like to make a special mention to Florence Nagle. In the inaugural ‘Directory of the Turf’, published in 1961, the ‘Trainers’ section contains a unique entry. It is Florence Nagle’s. Under the heading ‘Date of first trainer’s licence’, she has answered, “Probably never”.

Under ‘Any other details’, she writes: “I should not be in this book as like several other women I am only a ghost, unrecognised, without responsibility, but the fact remains that I train the horses and the mistakes and failures are mine, ditto the rare triumphs. One day perhaps the powers that be will grow up and recognise it is possible for a woman to train a horse.”

Mrs Nagle, then aged 66, trained a string of about 20 at Petworth, in Sussex, but the licence was held by her head man, William Stickley. She had been a racehorse owner since 1920 and a trainer since the early 1930s. Her best horse was Sandsprite, 100-1 runner-up to Mid-day Sun in the 1937 Derby when ridden by the King’s jockey, Jackie Crouch.

With Mid-day Sun being owned by a woman, Lettice Miller (officially Mrs G. B.Miller), and the second being owned and trained by a woman, it struck a chord with both the public and the newspapers, receiving extensive front-page coverage in the press.

Mrs Nagle, along with another woman trainer, Norah Wilmot, had been campaigning for more than 20 years for women to be issued with training licences. Their requests were repeatedly refused, effectively forcing them into the subterfuge of having a male employee to hold the licence.

Miss Wilmot, 72, had been training for 30 years, based at Binfield, in Berkshire. The licence was held on her behalf by Robert Greenhill. Her horses included Night Watch, owned by the Queen.

In February 1965 Mrs Nagle had written to the Jockey Club in support of her case. She pointed out that there was no rule forbidding the granting of a trainer’s licence to women; that suitable women had been granted licences in other parts of the world; that Madame du Bois, a leading trainer in Belgium, has entered and run horses in major races at Ascot; and that many male trainers acknowledged that they would be unable to run their stables without girl grooms.

She added that everybody knew and recognised that in certain stables the horses were trained by women and that it was only official recognition that was being denied them.

She concluded: “There has never been a reason given for the refusal to grant licences to women. Surely it would only be fair to state the reason. Last year I was informed by the Acting Steward that I knew the reason. I can only categorically state that I have no idea what the reasons are, as the ones suggested to me by various people were too foolish to be possible.”

When Weatherbys, responding on the Jockey Club’s behalf, again refused her request, she replied: “Your letter, needless to say, does not surprise me. What a passing of the buck from one body to another.

“Naturally, as there is no good reason for the refusal of the Jockey Club, or none that would stand up to publicity, you have to make it confidential, but I shall fight this decision of the ruling body by every means in my power, publicly and privately. Somebody has got to try and drag the Jockey Club into the 20th Century.”

The next step came in January 1966 when Mrs Nagle served a writ against two Jockey Club stewards, Viscount Allendale and Sir Randle Feilden. They were sued individually and on behalf of other stewards and members of the Jockey Club. The writ alleged that Mrs Nagle’s applications for a trainer’s licence had been refused solely on the grounds that she was a woman, and that the stewards’ practice was unlawful, in restraint of trade and contrary to public policy.

The action was initially struck out by Mr Justice John Stephenson, but the following month the Court of Appeal ruled that Mrs Nagle should be allowed to continue her High Court challenge, stating that the Jockey Club stewards’ refusal to grant training licences to women was “arbitrary and entirely out of touch with the present state of society”.

The information relating to Florence Nagle is from the QIPCO British Champions Series Hall of Fame – you can read the article in full here.

My name is Annie Frederick, founder of The Athletes House, a sports management and marketing agency dedicated to transforming neurodiversity in the industry. A little over a year ago, I embarked on this journey, driven by my personal experiences and the belief in a more inclusive future. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with AuDHD, a revelation that has profoundly helped me understand myself and my life better. AuDHD is the abbreviation for autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder combined.

About Annie

Since I was six, I have been passionate about equestrian sports and horse riding. My journey in the racing world includes riding out for trainer Chris Gordon, working at Whitsbury Manor Racing Yard & Stud, and attending the Royal Ascot for the past three years. Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to work at the Kentucky Derby for World Horse Racing. The behind-the-scenes stories in racing, the intense emotions, and the meticulous preparation fascinate me.

As a neurodivergent woman, I found peace and solace at the yard, immersing myself in caring for and training horses, socialising with friends, and consuming information about bloodstock, grooming tips, and training programs. Equestrian sports captured my imagination at a young age, nothing was more exhilarating and a cause of focus than preparing for a day’s trail hunting or competing at a local show.

Before founding The Athletes House, I worked as a physiologist, supporting athletes in their physical preparation for sporting events. Transitioning into a more commercial role, I remain committed to supporting athletes. My experiences have equipped me with the knowledge to advance safeguarding practices and advocate for the needs of neurodivergent individuals in sports. I am passionate about creating awareness campaigns and consulting with event organisers to foster truly inclusive environments.

Raising the profile of female athletes and jockeys is crucial for inspiring the next generation of women in sport. Highlighting their achievements not only provides them with deserved recognition but also challenges stereotypes and paves the way for greater participation and success.

Hiding behind the hat – Female Neurodiversity

I attended Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot, a day synonymous with elegance, grandeur, and the quintessential British hat. Yet, beneath these stylish headpieces, many women are hiding their neurodivergence. I spoke to numerous women about their experiences with neurodiversity, a term encompassing conditions including ADHD, dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Attention Deficit Disorder among others.

Neurodiversity refers to the wide range of differences in individual brain function and behavioural traits, all considered part of the normal variation within the human population. Despite this, many neurodivergent women feel compelled to mask their differences to fit in socially. Masking involves altering behaviour to conform to societal expectations, a strategy that can lead to exhaustion and a diminished sense of self.

Unmasking, on the other hand, is the process of letting one’s guard down. For neurodivergent women, this requires a safe and supportive environment. The essence of true inclusion isn’t just extending an invitation but ensuring that everyone feels genuinely welcomed and free to express their authentic selves. A lady in attendance articulated it as “The most important
thing [about inclusion] isn’t always inviting someone to the party, it is asking them to dance.”

Historically a male condition

Neurodivergence was predominantly associated with men and boys, leading to the underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of women and girls. Neurodivergent women present differently to men, hence all the established signs of neurodiversity are those which are associated with men and boys. Fortunately, this is changing. Increasingly, women are discovering their neurodivergence later in life, finding validation and relief in their diagnoses.

These diagnoses bring a crucial understanding: thinking differently can be a strength if viewed through the right lens.
Many neurodivergent women shared that they received their diagnoses late and they have developed strategies to navigate daily challenges. They emphasised the importance of raising awareness about neurodiversity and fostering supportive networks. People are often more understanding and adaptable than we might assume, especially when made aware of the
unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.

As a neurodivergent person myself, I recognise the difficulty in articulating these experiences and the fear of misconceptions. However, knowing your needs and advocating for them is essential. It is this self-advocacy that allows us to break through invisible barriers, achieve our goals, and make meaningful contributions to society.

Ultimately, neurodivergent women should be free to be their true selves. Their unedited contributions are invaluable, and the world benefits greatly when they are encouraged to shine. It’s time to stop hiding behind the hat and embrace the full spectrum of neurodiversity. Racing already has commendable initiatives like sensory rooms and autism-friendly race days. However, I am motivated to elevate neurodiversity awareness further and embed inclusion practices deeply into the mainstream.

Thank you Annie from sharing your thoughts. Watch this space!

Enter the England Lionesses to Wembley Stadium, facing Brazil in the Women’s Finalissima fresh from winning the Football European Championships months earlier. The Lionesses strode out with extra confidence beyond that provided by their new title accolade, as they debuted blue playing shorts, switching from white.

Where outcomes in elite sport are often determined by marginal gains – no athlete should have the distraction of period leakage worry potentially affecting their performance. It was through the Lionesses team campaigning to the Football Association (FA) that the change was approved.

The decision to address this cultural change may have given the Lionesses the edge they needed to beat Brazil 4-2 on penalties…

Why is this important?

Research released this month reveals the ‘significant impact of period stigma on young girls in the UK, as one in three (33%) aged 11-16 are uncomfortable taking part in physical activity whilst menstruating’ (Nuffield Health).

Football players cite use of the contraceptive pill to stop/delay periods, or under layer shorts acting as a pre-prepared solution, but this does not always address the issue. The FA implemented a widespread approach to support all players, removing barriers to participation while normalising discussion on the topic.

Women’s football clubs including Manchester City and West Bromwich Albion have followed suit switching to dark shorts. Other sports have implemented positive change within their arenas and across the world. Wimbledon relaxed the ‘all white attire’ rule last year to allow use of dark under shorts. Ireland’s women’s rugby union side have made the switch, acknowledging the benefits and Welsh Rugby have gone even further to better understand how menstrual cycles affect performance and explore links with concussion – developing a tracking App with Vodafone.

Nike, Puma and Adidas sell ‘period proof’ shorts and lower layer sportswear, while Always UK have sponsored Team GB Olympian Long Jumper Jazmin Sawyers and included her in their latest TV campaign aimed at reducing period anxiety:

Horse sports next to take the lead

Equestrian sports have adapted too, with British Eventing now allowing dark jodhpurs for all competition phases, having previously approved just the cross-country phase. 2024 brings similar rule changes for British Dressage, British Riding Clubs, Eventing Ireland, and the Pony Club who have approved dark seat-patched jodhpurs for competition in a recent rule update.

An Eventing Ireland spokesperson said: “As part of Eventing Ireland’s commitment to its diversity, inclusion and equality policy, at its recent meeting, the board discussed the subject of whether Eventing Ireland should follow other sporting bodies and clubs, such as British Riding Clubs, British Dressage and multiple national governing bodies in soccer, as well as national clubs, and give our athletes the choice to compete in dark-coloured jodhpurs at national and training competitions. EI asked members their opinions and “a resounding 78.5%” were in favour of the change.”

2024 rule changes in equestrian sport summarised:

1. – British Dressage – “Breeches or jodhpurs should predominately be of a solid, single colour. Dark-coloured contrast seats are permitted. Stripes or bold patterned breeches or jodhpurs are not allowed.”
2. – British Eventing – British Eventing now allows navy and black breeches and jodhpurs, as well as white, buff and fawn, in all phases and level of competition, including navy and black seats on white breeches/jodhpurs
3. – British Riding Clubs – White, cream and beige are still accepted but the addition of black and navy as permitted colours is intended to help female competitors feel more comfortable and confident to perform at their highest level while they are on their periods.

A ‘Breech’ of Tradition?

So what about racing? Should we keep pace with other sports and the needs of society in Britain? How might this affect current and future jockeys? 189 out of a total of 660 licensed British jockeys are female. Many factors may contribute to the imbalance of this figure; but if racing wants to be fully inclusive for generations to come, it would seem a simple solution to address kit issues, to remove any barrier?

Youth Sport Trust research shows that “issues around periods are the most commonly cited barrier to participation among secondary school girls, with 38% of those surveyed raising periods.” (March 2024). Could period shame be holding back pony racers and potential future jockeys?

What are the rules?

British racing’s rules state all jockeys can wear any colour breeches they wish to compete in. Different colours have been produced for charity awareness races and jockeys have worn dark pairs on the all-weather on rare occasions.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that jockeys may be:

• 1 Hesitant to go against tradition
• 2 Do not wish to stand out

Although not spoken about openly; period worry and leakage exists in the Weighing Room and most certainly on horseback across racing. A widespread issue or not; it is a situation that could be alleviated by providing further choice, and by male jockeys too adopting other colours, understanding and highlighting that this is not just a female problem.

A simple solution?

Leading racewear brands currently only sell white standard-weight racing breeches, superlight or waterproof options, and there is no option of female-specific fit, for racing or riding-out wear.

After consultation, various suppliers proved open to producing dark patch breeches (pictured) and limited free samples are available for jockeys of any gender to try. Anyone interested in taking up this opportunity should email info@womeninracing.co.uk to arrange.

In summary

The sport, its role-models and leaders can embrace change and move forward by sending an inclusive message to female participants. This subject is no longer ‘taboo’ and talking openly about it, especially in sport, is becoming commonplace.

Racing does not sit separately from the research cited in this feature – these figures will be representative of young girls who would consider racing as a career. Aside from welcoming new people to the sport, making our female athletes working environment easier should be a priority.

Let us know what you think

Email info@womeninracing.co.uk or get in touch with our committee directly on this link.

Women in Racing wish to thank Di Farrell-Thomas for her significant research, development and stakeholder engagement on this subject, and for pulling this article together to be shared here. 

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Further reading:

• ‘With statistics showing that 1 in 4 girls drop out of sport during adolescence, citing fear of period leakage as a key reason, adidas set out to tackle one of the greatest taboos in sport.’
• ‘Research released (today) by Nuffield Health reveals the significant impact of period stigma on young girls in the UK, as one in three (33%) aged 11-16 are uncomfortable taking part in physical activity whilst menstruating.’
• House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee: “YST’s research shows that issues around periods are the most commonly cited barrier to participation among secondary school girls, with 38% of those surveyed raising periods.” (March 2024).
• Period shame stops countless girls from continuing sport. The Women’s World Cup can help break this stigma (theconversation.com)
• Wimbledon will allow dark undershorts due to female players’ period concerns | Wimbledon | The Guardian
• Periods on the pitch: 3 Manchester City Women players’ stories (womenshealthmag.com)
• Finally, we’re seeing period-conscious kit designs for sport (stylist.co.uk)
• Sussex cricket club ditches all-white kit to ease period worries | The Independent
• Ireland Women switch to navy shorts for Six Nations over period concerns | Ireland women’s rugby union team | The Guardian
• Periods and white pants: is cricket turning girls away? | Sporting News Australia
• Emma Pallant-Browne shares powerful response to period shame

 

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