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Jockey - Personal requirements

Tioke

Skills & knowledge

Jockeys need to have:

horse-racing skills and knowledge of racing tactics
understanding of horse racing rules and procedures
knowledge of horses and their behaviour
skill caring for and handling horses
good communication and listening skills
good understanding of their own nutrition and exercise requirements to meet weight restrictions.

"You're always exposed to people in this job; your employer, trainers, owners and other jockeys. If you can communicate well your job will be much easier."

Darryl Bradley - Jockey

Personal Qualities

Jockeys must enjoy working with horses. They need to be self-disciplined and dedicated as they start work early in the morning and work long hours. Jockeys also need to be able to follow instructions and work well under pressure.

Jockeys ride horses at races

Darryl Bradley being weighed in with his gear before a race

Physical Requirements

Apprentice jockeys should weigh less than 50 kilograms and professional jockeys should weigh around 52 kilograms. This may mean needing to keep to a strict diet and exercising regularly. Jockeys also need to be strong and have good balance to ride horses at speed.

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Updated September 2009

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