Bug rider and Apprentice jock?

Question

I've been studying a lot on jockeys because I want to be one, but I've read lots of interviews where the jocks say they were "bug riders" or something first....what is a bug rider?

Answer 1

A bug is the informal term for an apprentice jockey.

Answer 2

Bug Boys or Bug Girls are apprentice jockeys.  The term is derived from the fact that there is an asterisk(*) after the weight, indicating another allowance (other than those present in the race conditions), has been taken.  Back in the day someone thought the asterisk looked like a squished bug =]

***  = 10 lbs allowance (0-5 wins)

** = 7 lbs allowance (6-35 wins)

* = 5 lbs (if more than 35 wins with 12 mos after there fifth win)

Answer 3

a bug boy or girl is an apprentice...usually you will hear them called   10  7  or 5 pound bugs , based on  the weight they are allowed

Answer 4

A bug rider is another name for an apprentice jockey.

Answer 5

a bug rider is a appr. jockey that hasnt won a single race has to win first five races in order for his/her apprenticeship to start has nothing to do with there weight in any way cause there weight is already a factor......also they have to win 200 races beforse there appr. ends