How To Become a Jockey
If you see yourself as a budding Flat or Jump jockey, further information on jockey courses and the experience required to become a jockey are provided by the British Racing School and the National Horseracing College, who are the two main providers of Jockey Training in the industry.
Jockeys’ advice
Oisin Murphy, Champion Flat Jockey 2019
“I don’t look at myself and think of myself as Champion jockey, maybe for a couple of minutes when I collect the trophy. I’d love to be really pleased with the way it’s gone but I’ve just ridden more horses and probably worked harder than anyone else and that’s why I’m Champion Jockey. The other plus point is that I haven’t had a suspension at all this year, whereas I had loads last year when I was letting my horse drift or using the whip one time too many.”
Cieren Fallon, Champion Apprentice Jockey 2019
“It’s been a surprise as this year was meant to be a quiet season learning the trade and the tracks, and next year we were going to go for the Apprentice title. I’ve got big goals. If you set yourself to just one Championship and one Derby, when you’ve achieved that what do you do next? I must give thanks to Mr Haggas as well as my jockey coaches, Michael Hills and Michael Tebbutt, who have been a great help. My agent Phil Shea has got some nice outside rides for me and it was great to have winners at Glorious Goodwood and in the Old Borough Cup at Haydock.”
Brian Hughes, Champion Jump Jockey 2019/20
“It has always been a dream of mine to become champion jockey, so to have finally achieved it is fantastic. I’ve had another great season and I cannot thank all the trainers, owners, stable staff and my family enough who have continued to support me.”
Jonjo O’Neill Jnr, Champion Conditional Jockey 2019/20
“I ended on 61 winners and we obviously missed the last six weeks of the season. My goal had been 50 at the beginning of the season and then when I got to 50 I set 75 and then it stopped quickly. Hopefully, I can try to better it next year. It will be hard, but I’m looking forward to trying. I’ve been very lucky this year, but I know you do have to get more competitive each year. I’ve realised that this year.”