Horse jockeys are the hardworking professionals responsible for riding champion horses in races around the world. If you’re a horse lover, this job may seem like a dream, but the truth of the matter is that horse jockeying is much more difficult than it seems. Jockeys don’t always get the appreciation they deserve in this challenging sport.
Jockeying Ain’t Easy
Image via Flickr by tinou bao
Size Does Matter
You may focus on the physique of the horse when you watch racing, but the size of the jockey is equally important. US weight limits for jockeys typically fall between 108 and 118 pounds, depending on the race. In the Kentucky Derby, jockeys can weigh of up to 126 pounds. These restrictions include all clothing and equipment. These limits create a strict diet for jockeys and some suspect that starvation techniques are even used by some.
That’s Not My Horse
Most competitions prohibit the jockey from owning the horse that’s being raced. The jockey does, however, provide the saddles, bridles, crops, western tack, and other equipment. Additional expenses for the jockey include health insurance, travel costs, and agent fees. Though they own their clothing, they do not pick the colors.
Ch-ch-changes!
Jockeys must become familiar with different horses very easily. A professional jockey might ride as many as 12 different horses in a day. Since each animal is unique, it’s important for jockeys to have a practiced hand at managing different temperaments.
It’s Not about the Money
Though this job may seem prestigious, jockeys only see a small percentage of the winnings. In most races, the jockey receives just 5% of the total prize money if he wins. If he doesn’t win, his fee is typically less than $100. Only a very small amount jockeys enjoy salaries. Most average $35,000 to $45,000 a year.
Little Love for the Jockey
The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, in Saratoga Springs, NY, has inducted 179 horses but only 91 jockeys. The riders in these races don’t get nearly as much love as their equine counterparts.
Till Death do Us Part
In 1923, Frank Hayes suffered a heart attack mid-race and was technically deceased when he finished. Amazingly, Hayes stayed astride Sweet Kiss till the end and won the race. Poor Sweet Kiss was known as “Sweet Kiss of Death” forever afterwards.
It’s a Boy’s Club
The majority of jockeys are men, and women often have trouble getting a good mount. The first female jockey was Diane Crump in 1969. Barbara Jo Rubin was the first female jockey to win a race this same year. Only six women have ever ridden in the Kentucky Derby, including Crump who first rode here in 1970. The highest a female jockey has ever placed in the Kentucky Derby is 11th.
Despite some of the dangers and drawbacks, horse jockeying is often a rewarding career for the well-suited people who have a true love for the sport. After all, it’s hard to beat the thrill of navigating the track at up to 40 miles an hour on the back of a beautiful and powerful equine companion.
This post was written by Shaun Chatman, who is a well published author on many authority sites. He lives in Dunedin, FL, and spends his free time playing with his kids or advising friends on everything from tech and gadgets to finance and travel.