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What is an Apprentice Jockey?
An apprentice jockey is a young or inexperienced jockey who is in the early stages of their professional riding career. Apprentice jockeys are essentially in training, learning the craft while competing in actual races under the supervision of trainers and racing officials.
Some of the key responsibilities of an Apprentice Jockey include:
- Riding in races
- Understanding race strategy
- Trackwork riding
- Fitness & weight management
- Communication
An apprentice jockey is a rookie race rider building experience and reputation in the Thoroughbred racing world. With a weight allowance to boost their competitiveness, they learn the high-stakes profession through real races, mentorship, and hard work. All of the world's top jockeys began their careers as apprentices.
Steps to becoming a Jockey
- Class B Rider’s Licence Apprentice Jockey
- Level 2 Certificate Introduction to Equine Skills
- Completed 12-month Probationary Period (30 satisfactory trial rides, 5x raceday inductions)
- Pass National Licensing Course
- Pass medical test
- Pass official fitness test
- Pass rules of racing test
- Knowledge of racing tactics
- Supportive trainer/employer – employed full time
- Good communication skills
- Strong work ethic, self-reliant, desire to learn
- Engaging in EJP training programme and courses (Level 3 & 4 Certificate in Racing Jockey)
- Competent riding skills
- Maximum 54kgs
Careers
Apprentice Jockey
New Zealand has a proud history of producing top-class jockeys that ply their trade both domestically and around the world, a process that begins with the path of an apprentice jockey.
A path into an apprenticeship can look different to every individual, with some coming through equestrian backgrounds, to family involvement or fitting the physique required to undertake the career.