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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] X Research source
Steps
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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] X Research source
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Apply for a jockey apprenticeship license. 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] X Research sourceAdvertisement
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Fulfill apprenticeship requirements. 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] X Research source
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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] X Research source
- A jockey who has earned his or her jockey license is called a “journeyman jockey.” [8] X Research source
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Take an entry level job at a race track or horse farm. 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] X Research source
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Hire an agent. 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] X Research source
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Maintain weight with a healthy diet. Jockeys need to weigh between 110 pounds (50 kg) and 115 pounds (52 kg), so eating a balanced diet is very important. [13] X Research source While some jockeys naturally fall within that range, most need to follow a very strict eating plan. [14] X Research source
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Study the races and horses. 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] X Research source
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Join the Jockeys’ Guild. 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] X Research source Members must be licensed jockeys and pay annual dues of $100 and a mount fee of $4 for each horse they ride. [19] X Research source
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Community Q&A
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QuestionIs becoming a jockey an unrealistic and unreasonable dream? What are the chances of becoming a jockey?Community AnswerBecoming 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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References
- ↑ https://bizfluent.com/info-8666073-average-salary-horse-jockey.html
- ↑ https://careertrend.com/facts-7609953-jockey-height-weight-limits.html
- ↑ https://careertrend.com/facts-7609953-jockey-height-weight-limits.html
- ↑ https://horseandcountry.tv/what-does-it-take-become-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://careertrend.com/facts-7609953-jockey-height-weight-limits.html
- ↑ https://careertrend.com/facts-7609953-jockey-height-weight-limits.html
- ↑ https://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/7854/Jockey.html
- ↑ https://careertrend.com/facts-7609953-jockey-height-weight-limits.html
- ↑ https://jobshadow.com/interview-with-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/7854/Jockey.html
- ↑ https://jobshadow.com/interview-with-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/about/nara/about-us/faqs/being-a-jockey-faqs/index.aspx
- ↑ https://jobshadow.com/interview-with-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/about/nara/about-us/faqs/being-a-jockey-faqs/index.aspx
- ↑ https://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/about/nara/about-us/faqs/being-a-jockey-faqs/index.aspx
- ↑ https://jobshadow.com/interview-with-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://jobshadow.com/interview-with-a-jockey/
- ↑ https://www.jockeysguild.com/history
- ↑ https://www.jockeysguild.com/assets/files/Page_Editor_Files/membershipApplication_2014.pdf
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- "I already knew I wanted to attend jockey school before reading this article, but it motivates me when I see other questions people ask. It makes me feel less alone, and I do think I can manage it if I don't second-guess myself. NARA, here I come!" ..." more
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"I already knew I wanted to attend jockey school before reading this article, but it motivates me when I see other questions people ask. It makes me feel less alone, and I do think I can manage it if I don't second-guess myself. NARA, here I come!"
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