If you are interested in becoming a jockey, there are several things you should know. You should keep in mind that you will have to get an education and a good weight. There is also a five-year apprenticeship program that you can do. Also, you will be expected to earn money from your job as a jockey.
Average jockey height
The average jockey height is usually about 5’2″ to 5’6″ in America, but taller jockeys have been seen. For example, there is Manute Bol, a former NBA center who is 7’7″.
There are no official height requirements for jockeys. However, they are not allowed to exceed their weight limit.
Typically, the average weight for a jockey is between 108 and 118 pounds. In addition to their own weight, they may carry up to a few pounds of extra weight during a race.
Several of the world’s most successful jockeys are shorter. Shorter jockeys tend to be more successful because of their height and ability to control their horse.
While there are no official minimum height requirements, many jockeys have tried to pressure officials to raise their requirements. Some, such as Stuart Brown, who stood six feet and three inches, faced health problems that contributed to his early death at 43.
Although there are no formal minimum height requirements for jockeys, the racing commissions set their own weight limits. These requirements vary depending on the type of race.
Jump racing requires a greater amount of strength and endurance. A higher weight limit will reduce the risk of injury.
When the racing commission sets a weight limit, the jockey’s height is not usually considered. It is also possible for the jockey to adjust his or her weight before or after a race.
Jockeys must adhere to a strict diet and exercise regimen. They often skip meals and use laxatives to lose weight. This can lead to dehydration and muscle weakness. Also, forced vomiting can cause cavities and gum disease.
Many jockeys are at risk of developing nutritional deficiencies or breaking bones because of malnutrition. They must also avoid substances that are harmful to their health.
Apprenticeships last for five years
If you’re interested in becoming a jockey, you may be tempted to start at an apprenticeship. This program, which lasts about four years, includes a combination of horse riding training, vocational education, and other development.
You’ll also learn about racing rules and safety. In addition, you’ll be able to ride in some races with an allowance. And in some cases, you’ll be able to claim a weight allowance.
Apprentices are required to ride forty winners within a year. They’re then entitled to an allowance of five pounds. That allowance may be extended for seven consecutive days.
Some states, like California, allow apprentices to claim an extra three pounds for an additional year. Regardless, the weight advantage is still small compared to more experienced jockeys.
Another important point is that apprentices under contract are required to ride horses owned by the owner or trainer. So even if they win, they must share the money they earn with their employers.
As a side note, many of the best young riders choose to leave for the warm sands of southern Florida or the New York racing scene. Despite that, their career may be more lucrative than the average stablehand.
An apprentice’s time in an apprenticeship can be quite fruitful, if they work hard. Whether they’re in the stable or working on their own, they’ll have an opportunity to work with several horses, which can teach them how to ride them properly.
If you’re interested in an apprenticeship, check with your local track to find out the requirements. Also, look into videos and documentaries about the role. Watching a race can help you understand how a jockey handles a horse and how they handle themselves in fast-paced situations.
Education requirements
Whether you have always wanted to be a jockey or are interested in a career in horse racing, you should be aware of the education requirements to become a jockey. Having a good sense of balance and agility, as well as knowledge of the horse racing industry and current horses and trainers, are just a few of the qualifications you’ll need to meet.
While you don’t need a formal college degree to become a jockey, it does help to have a high school diploma or GED. In addition, you’ll need to be physically fit, with an athletic build, and have some riding experience.
The best way to get training for a career as a jockey is to enroll in a jockey apprenticeship. This program will teach you all about the industry and the care of horses. It’s also a chance for you to gain hands-on experience and gain credibility.
Before you start your apprenticeship, you’ll need to complete 20 barrier trials. These are a series of tests designed to test your ability to ride a race horse. You’ll learn everything from horse anatomy to how to prepare a horse for a jump out.
After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll need to earn your racing license. To do this, you’ll need to pass a medical exam and a National Police Check. Additionally, you’ll need to prove that you are a safe rider and that you have a strong work ethic.
Ultimately, a career as a jockey can be a rewarding one. But it will take time and effort to make it happen. Becoming a jockey is not easy.
Whether you’re looking to join the professional ranks or simply want to work in the industry, you’ll find many job opportunities in the field. Those with a passion for horses and the thrill of competition will enjoy the career.
Weight requirements
As a professional jockey, you must meet a few weight requirements. This is important for both you and the horses you’re riding.
The minimum weight requirement for the UK is 112 pounds. However, this is only a guideline. Some races have a higher limit. In the National Hunt, a jockey cannot weigh more than 140 pounds. A steeplechase jockey must weigh less than 125 pounds.
Weight is a major concern for all athletes, but it’s especially true for jockeys. Jockeys are usually a bit shorter than their average peers, and it’s not uncommon for them to be underweight.
In addition to height, weight requirements for jockeys are determined by the type of racing they’re involved in. Flat races require acceleration speed and endurance, while jump racing requires more strength. Jocks who weigh close to the weight of their horses are preferred by racehorse trainers.
Jocks are required to weigh in prior to each race and must maintain a target weight. They must also maintain a healthy diet and avoid substances that may be harmful to their health.
In the past, many jockeys have developed unhealthy weight loss techniques. For example, they used to “flip” by vomiting to lose weight. Other methods include excessive exercise in sweatsuits and laxatives.
Most racehorse trainers believe that carrying too much weight is harmful to a horse. If a jockey is underweight, he or she will have more difficulty controlling the horse. Additionally, low-weight riders can develop dehydration and nutritional deficiencies.
The weight requirements for jockeys have been increasing in recent years. Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley, California, and Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, have all adopted a minimum weight.
Earning money as a jockey
If you want to become a jockey, you’ll need to make a few sacrifices. It’s one of the riskiest careers in the world, and it’s not always easy to turn a profit. However, there are some ways to increase your odds of success.
Many jockeys work as independent contractors, and they’ll need to pay for their own equipment and supplies. Jockeys can earn as much as PS22,000 a year before tax.
Some of the best jockeys have retained the services of agents. These individuals can help find horses for them, and they also collect a percentage of their earnings.
In addition, many jockeys may have sponsors. This is a way of increasing their income, and can also allow them to have more control over their schedule. A winning jockey can earn as much as $600, while a losing jockey can only pocket $40.
Top jockeys can earn hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, but they must be prepared to sacrifice. The majority of them make less than a six-figure income.
On the flip side, they have the ability to earn well-deserved prizes. They can earn as much as 10% of the purse for finishing in first place, and 0.5% for placing second.
To make the most money as a jockey, you need to get into the right competitions. There are several types of races, such as the Breeders’ Cup and the Kentucky Derby. You’ll also need to find a good agent.
Lastly, you’ll need to take care of your tax. Most jockeys don’t have the luxury of time to pay taxes. Even when they do, they rarely get the full amount.
Finally, there’s a course you can take to learn about business and how to succeed as a self-employed professional. This is a course that covers everything from how to market your services to how to properly handle your finances.