Horse racing stewards are an essential part of the horse racing industry. They are responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations of horse racing, as well as overseeing the safety of the horses, riders, and jockeys. As such, the position requires a great deal of knowledge, experience, and dedication. So, how much do horse racing stewards make?
Understanding the Role of Horse Racing Stewards
Before delving into how much horse racing stewards make, it is important to understand their role. Horse racing stewards are the gatekeepers of the sport and must ensure that all participants abide by the rules and regulations of the sport. Stewards are responsible for inspecting the horses, jockeys, and riders before and after each race; ensuring that all equipment and safety protocols are being followed; ensuring that the track is suitable for racing; and examining any evidence or testimony from participants or spectators in the event of an incident or dispute.
The position of horse racing steward is highly specialized, requiring a great deal of knowledge and experience. As such, horse racing stewards must have a comprehensive understanding of the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as a deep understanding of the various breeds, types, and temperaments of horses.
How Much Do Horse Racing Stewards Make?
So, how much do horse racing stewards make? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for horse racing stewards in the United States is $69,160. The lowest 10 percent of earners make around $37,340 per year, while the highest 10 percent make around $117,620.
In addition to the base salary, horse racing stewards may also be eligible for a number of benefits, such as health insurance, vacation and sick leave, and retirement plans.
Factors Affecting Horse Racing Steward Salaries
There are a number of factors that can affect the salary of a horse racing steward. These include:
Location: Horse racing stewards in large metropolitan areas typically earn higher salaries than those in smaller markets.
Experience: Horse racing stewards with more experience tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience.
Employer: Horse racing stewards employed by larger racetracks or organizations typically earn higher salaries than those employed by smaller ones.
Type of Racing: Stewards who oversee higher levels of racing, such as Triple Crown or Breeders’ Cup events, may earn higher salaries than those who oversee lower levels of racing.
Conclusion
Horse racing stewards are an essential part of the horse racing industry. They are responsible for ensuring that all participants abide by the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as ensuring the safety of the horses, riders, and jockeys. The position requires a great deal of knowledge, experience, and dedication, and is highly specialized. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for horse racing stewards in the United States is $69,160. However, this figure can be affected by a number of factors, such as location, experience, employer, and type of racing.