Teenage Horse Racing: Age Requirements & Jockey Paths

Question
Do you know if they let teenagers between the ages of 14-17 race in Thoroughbred Horse Races? Or, if not, can you tell me if there are any other locations that can let someone become a Horse Jockey? I have one last question. Are girls allowed to race because the horse races I watch only has guy-jockeys. Thank you.

Answer
Where I race in Maryland and Virginia, you have to be at least 16 years old to get a jockey license. There may be be some exceptions in certain states or countries and special circumstances, but I have not heard of any around here.

One of 2007 top Jockeys in Maryland, was a teenage female. She was first in the standings this year and I am not sure if she has been passed or not. She is now twenty years old. I had a good friend who was a female who turned out to be a great jockey and another who did pretty well until a career ending injury.

The best thing to do for a 14 year old is to get a job at a thoroughbred horse racing farm and spend the next two years getting a lot of practice so when she becomes 16, she will be more than ready to take down the boys.


Christopher Crocker

http://CrockerRacingStable.com

Crocker Racing Stable and Thoroughbred Horse Racing Partnerships