Exercise Jockey? should i become one or not? anyone out there that is a exercise a jockey? tell me about it.?

Question

i've been around my horses my whole life. i own 6 i've showed in english, western, jumping, and this year i'm finally contesting i love the feeling of running and i don't want to get a job where i'll never even be around horses. i love grooming and riding i love everything about them. even cleaning stalls anything that lets me with them i am a complete freak about horses. i've been riding since i was three. so help me out here. if you are a exercise jockey or have ever worked in at a race track w/ horses tell me about it please!! and thank you.

Answer 1

Go for it!  Be prepared for lots of hours in the saddle.

Most people in the racing end get their introduction to the business by starting out as a hot walker at the track, and move up to groom, and then exercise rider.  OR they start their careers on a farm breaking babies.  Either is a good start.  The days start early, and often end late.  

Trainers have their own way of doing things, so any introduction you can get will help.  Me, I simply walked into a barn and asked for a job as a hotwalker, and got one.

I would suggest you do the same.  And whatever you do DO NOT LIE about your talents.  These people are entrusting you with an animal that is not a pet, and is a form of income.  tell them the truth, and someone will eventually give you a chance.  Excercise riding is extremely taxing, and a racehorse will test you.   I truly suggest you start on the ground, and work your way up.

Good luck, and I hope you do well!

Answer 2

Firstly, and most importantly you have to get up around

4:30 a.m. If you are younger (under 18) you have to think about your education. There are special schools in some areas, but not many. You have to learn how to "clock" your horses time while you're ridding. A trainer asks you to breeze 5 furlongs at a minute three, you have to go a minute three. If not the trainer might get upset. Your best bet would be to find a trainer or exercise jockey willing to take you under their wing and train you themselves.

Answer 3

I rode work for many years in England and it was usually fun but hard work. We started at 7am and usually had 3 lots plus 1 set of yearlings each morning. Sometimes it sucks especially when the weather is really bad and your hands are so cold that you can't even feel the reins but all in all, it was good times although you'll never get rich from doing it. In the US, try the new racing academy for details;

http://www.nara.kctcs.edu/