Jockeys are an integral part of horse racing and the racing industry as a whole. They are responsible for guiding their mounts to victory, often in tight situations, and their skill and expertise can make or break a race.
But do jockeys get 10% of their earnings as some people might think? The answer to that question is complicated, as it depends on a variety of factors. In this article, we’ll explore the topic of jockey pay and what percentage they typically receive.
What Is a Jockey?
A jockey is a professional horse rider who competes in horse racing events. They must be licensed by a racing governing body, such as the British Horseracing Authority in the UK, and abide by the rules and regulations set out by both the governing body and the individual tracks at which they race.
Jockeys must also be physically fit and have extensive knowledge of horses, racing strategies, and the track. They are responsible for controlling the horse during the race, including when to accelerate and decelerate, as well as when to make turns. They must also be able to read the race and the other horses competing in order to make the best decisions.
How Much Do Jockeys Make?
The amount of money jockeys make depends on a variety of factors, including the type of race, the purse size of the race, and the jockey’s experience. Generally speaking, jockeys make anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per race.
Jockeys also receive a percentage of the purse when they win a race. This percentage typically ranges from 5-10%, but can be higher or lower depending on the race and the jockey’s agreement with the owner of the horse.
Do Jockeys Get 10%?
In most cases, jockeys do not receive 10% of the purse for winning a race. Most jockeys receive between 5-10%, with the percentage dependant on the race and the agreement between the jockey and the horse’s owner.
However, some jockeys, such as those with a particularly successful track record, may receive up to 20% of the purse. This is usually the case with high-stakes races or those with large purses.
Do Jockeys Get a Salary?
In addition to the purse money they receive for winning races, some jockeys are also paid a salary by their employers. This can range from a few hundred dollars a month to several thousand dollars a month, depending on the jockey’s experience and the agreement between the jockey and their employer.
It’s important to note that most jockeys do not receive a salary and are instead paid solely through the purse money they win. This means that the amount of money they make is dependent on their success in races.
Do Jockeys Get Bonuses?
In addition to the purse money they receive for winning a race, some jockeys may also receive bonuses from their employers. These bonuses can include additional money for winning multiple races within a certain period of time, or for achieving certain goals such as winning a certain number of races in a single day.
Bonuses can vary widely depending on the agreement between the jockey and their employer, so it’s important to check with your employer or the governing body of your sport for more information.
Do Jockeys Get Health Insurance?
Jockeys do not typically receive health insurance from their employers. This is due to the fact that jockeys are considered independent contractors, rather than employees, and as such are not eligible for health insurance through their employer.
However, some jockeys may be eligible for health insurance through their country’s national health service or through private health insurance providers. It’s important to check with your provider to see what options are available.
Do Jockeys Get Retirement Benefits?
Jockeys do not typically receive retirement benefits from their employers. This is due to the fact that they are considered independent contractors and not employees. However, some jockeys may be eligible for retirement benefits through their country’s national pension system or through private retirement plans.
It’s important to check with your employer or the governing body of your sport for more information about retirement benefits.
Do Jockeys Get Other Benefits?
In addition to the money they receive for winning races and any bonuses they may receive from their employer, jockeys may also be eligible for other benefits. These can include:
- Travel expenses: Some jockeys may be eligible for travel expenses to and from races.
- Horse care expenses: Jockeys may be eligible for reimbursement for certain expenses related to caring for their mount.
- Discounts on racing apparel and equipment: Jockeys may be eligible for discounts on racing apparel and equipment.
It’s important to check with your employer or the governing body of your sport for more information about any additional benefits you may be eligible for.
Conclusion
Do jockeys get 10%? The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the type of race, the purse size of the race, and the jockey’s agreement with the horse’s owner. In most cases, jockeys receive between 5-10% of the purse for winning a race, although some jockeys may receive up to 20%.
In addition to the purse money they receive for winning races, some jockeys may also receive a salary, bonuses, and other benefits from their employers. It’s important to check with your employer or the governing body of your sport for more information about any additional benefits you may be eligible for.