How to Become a Jockey

Jockeys ride horses competitively, and the possibility of winning a prestigious race like the Kentucky Derby draws many horse lovers to the profession. In the United States, top jockeys can earn millions of dollars per year, but most earn between $30,000 and $40,000 annually. Because the majority of a jockey’s earnings depend on winning races, it is a risky profession that requires training, professional networking, and meeting stringent physical requirements.^{[1]XResearch source}

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Acquiring Education and Training

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1
Enroll in a jockey training program. In the United States, the North American Racing Academy is the country’s only school for jockeys and offers a two-year program. Applicants need to have a high school diploma or GED and experience riding and training horses.^{[2]XResearch source}
- In the United States, formal training is not required to become a jockey.^{[3]XResearch source} However, other countries like the United Kingdom do require formal training.^{[4]XResearch source}
Since application requirements vary by region, it is important to research the rules in your area. In the United States, many states require applicants to be at least 16 years old and meet specific height and weight requirements.^{[5]XResearch source}
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These vary by region, so make sure you are familiar with the requirements in your area. They may include spending a certain amount of time working in stables, passing an exam, and meeting racing and health requirements.^{[6]XResearch source}
4
Apply for a jockey license. Requirements vary by region and could include demonstrating your riding skills and knowledge of racetrack rules to racetrack officials. You can apply for a jockey license at most racetracks.^{[7]XResearch source}
- A jockey who has earned his or her jockey license is called a “journeyman jockey.”^{[8]XResearch source}

Part 2

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Finding Work as a Jockey

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This allows you to get experience with horses and start building a professional reputation. While the glamor of racing is what draws many jockeys to the profession, potential employers want jockeys who have a proven ability to work hard behind the scenes, too.^{[9]XResearch source}
Jockeys usually work for horse owners and trainers and receive job offers based on their professional reputation.^{[10]XResearch source} Jockeys often exercise horses for trainers for free as a way to make professional connections.^{[11]XResearch source}
An agent solicits business with horse owners and trainers. While it isn’t mandatory to have an agent, the vast majority of jockeys are represented by one to assist with securing work.^{[12]XResearch source}

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Succeeding as a Jockey

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Jockeys need to weigh between 110 pounds (50 kg) and 115 pounds (52 kg), so eating a balanced diet is very important.^{[13]XResearch source} While some jockeys naturally fall within that range, most need to follow a very strict eating plan.^{[14]XResearch source}
While riding horses is exercise, jockeys also need strength, stamina, and flexibility training to perform to the best of their abilities.^{[15]XResearch source} Some jockeys hire personal trainers to stay in top form.^{[16]XResearch source}
Since each race course and horse’s abilities are different, jockeys need to be knowledgeable about them in order to race effectively. After the race, jockeys often interact with trainers to give them information about the horse’s performance.^{[17]XResearch source}
In the United States, the Jockeys’ Guild advocates for safe working conditions, bargains collectively for its members, and provides disability benefits and life insurance.^{[18]XResearch source} Members must be licensed jockeys and pay annual dues of $100 and a mount fee of $4 for each horse they ride.^{[19]XResearch source}

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Is becoming a jockey an unrealistic and unreasonable dream? What are the chances of becoming a jockey?
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Becoming a jockey is not an unreasonable or unrealistic dream. Many have started out as just riders, but with hard work and determination, it can become a reality. Your chances depend on just how much hard work and determination you're willing to put into this dream.
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