How To Become A Jockey
Contributed By Stevie StatsPosted on 6/12/10 11:33 AM
Think you've got what it takes to be a jockey? For anyone who follows horse racing, the life of a jockey may seem exciting. Is getting paid to ride a horse really work? Not to mention the money you can make - the average jockey receives 10% of the purse money. On a one million dollar purse that's one hundred thousand dollars - not bad for two minutes worth of work right?
This may be the outside impression, but the life of a jockey is both difficult and dangerous. It requires long hours of preparation, often starting very early in the morning, and a thorough understanding of horses. It's also the most dangerous job in professional sports, resulting in over 2,000 injuries per year. While the money may seem amazing, for every jockey on the leader board making millions, there are thousands of others living on less than $20,000 a year working just as hard.
In many ways, jockeys are like modern warriors vying for the opportunity of that one mount, that one race that will bring them glory. For those that love horses and the thrill of the wind in your face on a 2,000 pound animal, does it get better? For that opportunity, preparation and dedication is the key.
For many enthusiasts, meeting the physical requirements can be the most difficult part. Jockeys must weigh less than 110 pounds and be at least 16 years old. There are no height restrictions, but jockeys generally have a smaller frame and structure. You also need to be in good physical shape. Your job as a jockey is not just riding the horse but maintaining control and this requires good upper body strength.
If you meet the physical requirements, the next step is to learn everything you can about horses and the world of horse racing. Hang around the stables and try to get a job cleaning out stalls and working with trainers. Learn about their daily routines are including feeding patterns, workouts and health. Experience will not only make you a better rider, but help you form relationships in the industry which is important in any field. Demonstrating a strong work ethic may get you an opportunity as an exercise rider which can progress into racing.
Once you have enough experience under your belt, you should apply for a racing license. The rules and regulations for a racing license vary by state, so you will have to check your state's laws. Your experience with trainers should lead to an apprenticeship and this will give you an opportunity to ride. An apprenticeship will allow you to start earning money as a rider but more importantly it will give you the opportunity to participate in races. You receive a 5-pound weight allowance as an apprentice (meaning you can weigh up to 115 pounds) but your goal should be to meet the 110 pound requirement. This will make the adjustment from apprentice to journeyman jockey easier.
After you win the required amount of races you will be promoted to a journeyman jockey, which will allow you to obtain an agent. An agent will work for you to find trainers and owners interested in hiring you as a rider. As with anything else, the best agents work with the best jockeys, so your experience and success on the track will be the key.
The life of a jockey can be very exciting and lucrative but it's not an easy life. If you're not willing to put in the work, you may be better off finding something else. Many jockeys have suffered life threatening injuries on the track leaving many paralyzed and some even dead. Broken bones and concussions are common and some riders are never able to physically, mentally, or emotionally recover. Don't make the decision to become a jockey lightly, but if you decide to pursue it, it can be a very exciting lifestyle. Best of luck!
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