Macau is off limits to Hong Kong jockeys who have been advised it is not in their best interests to visit the Portuguese-administered enclave.
Macau has made worldwide headlines with the gang warfare that has prevailed on its streets for months - the main reason for the Hong Kong Jockey Club's move in relation to its licensed riders.
Director of security David Twynham confirmed yesterday that he had seen a number of jockeys to date and would interview the remaining riders before the start of the season on September 6.
He said: 'Macau is a dangerous place at the moment and the jockeys I have seen so far have been advised as to the risks they could take in going there. This is particularly so in the case of jockeys who are new to Hong Kong and riding here for the first time.
'We are not here to give jockeys a hard time. We are also here to help them and that is the position in this instance.' The Jockey Club is also concerned about other aspects of Macau life.
'There is the matter of organised crime and punters wanting to bet for Hong Kong jockeys. Basically, you don't get something for nothing in this life. Ultimately, of course, it comes down to personal integrity,' said Twynham.
