Racehorse Exercise Rider-- Need Advice?

Question

Here's a few things about me. I always wanted to be an exercise rider at a horse racetrack.

- I live 15 mins from Fairplex, CA and have connections to get a license and become one. I haven't put the time and experience in it yet.

- I'm a college student and am willing to work in the mornings from ~6am-10am 6x per week if possible

- I've worked with many OTTB along with 8 years of breaking young horses to showing them in many disciplines (Western, Hunter/Jumper, Trail)

- I'm about 5'2", 125-128 lbs

I need some advice. Where should I start? I know I probably have to work my way up probably grooming or hot walking. And what the pros and cons? Any word of advice for me? Thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, You've got that right. THere is nothing like riding a Race Horse. You get so that you "never" want any other kind of job. Over my life time of being with Race Horses, both Thoroughbred and Quarter horses, in not only England, but Canada and Americaas well, and being a Jockey in Canada and America. I never even thought about some other kind of work. Sure, maybe it's dangerous at times, but the rewards far outway the Danger.

So whatever you do GET INTO HORSE RACING. IT'S A FANTASTIC LIFE.

Answer 2

Yes, You've got that right. THere is nothing like riding a Race Horse. You get so that you "never" want any other kind of job. Over my life time of being with Race Horses, both Thoroughbred and Quarter horses, in not only England, but Canada and Americaas well, and being a Jockey in Canada and America. I never even thought about some other kind of work. Sure, maybe it's dangerous at times, but the rewards far outway the Danger.

So whatever you do GET INTO HORSE RACING. IT'S A FANTASTIC LIFE.

Answer 3

Most exercise riders learn to gallop at a farm, where the trainers keep horses away from the track.  Best thing is to stick with one trainer and stay with them for a year or two, or twenty, whatever. Often an exercise rider will gallop in the mornings, then go out to the farm to work with other horses in the afternoon.  Good luck, get health coverage/insurance.