What Does a Jockey Make?
Professional jockeys are athletes who race horses for a living. These riders are trained to guide horses to the finish line in the fastest, safest way possible. Jockeys must possess a combination of physical and psychological skill to make a successful career in the sport. In addition to their talent and commitment to the horses, jockeys can also make a good living. But what does a jockey make?
Jockey Salary
Jockeys typically make a base salary, in addition to a percentage of their winnings. The base salary depends on the jockey’s experience and level of success. According to the United States Jockey Club, the base salary can range from $120-$400 per race day.
Winning Percentage
In addition to the base salary, jockeys also make a percentage of their winnings. This percentage varies, but it usually ranges from 5-15%. So, if a jockey wins a race, they will typically make a percentage of the total purse. The purse is the amount of money awarded to the winner, and it is usually determined by the race type and the amount of money bet on that race.
Bonus Structure
Some horse racing organizations offer a bonus structure for jockeys who win multiple races in a single day. For example, a jockey who wins two or three races in one day may be eligible for an additional bonus. This bonus structure is designed to reward jockeys for their success and encourage them to race more often.
Tips and Gratuities
Jockeys often receive tips and gratuities from owners and trainers, in addition to their base salary and winnings. These tips and gratuities can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the race and the jockey’s performance.
Endorsement Deals
Many jockeys also make money through endorsement deals. These deals can range from sponsorships to product endorsements. For example, a jockey may be sponsored by a saddle manufacturer, or they may be paid to promote a certain product.
Endorsement Fees
In addition to endorsement deals, some jockeys also receive endorsement fees. These fees are usually paid on a per-race or per-year basis, and they can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Race Day Fees
Jockeys may also receive fees for attending race days. These fees typically range from $50-$100 per race day.
Travel Expenses
In some cases, jockeys may also receive compensation for travel expenses. This compensation can include airfare, hotel accommodations, and meals.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to their salary and winnings, jockeys may also receive benefits and perks. These benefits can include health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks such as free entry to race days.
Overall Earnings
Overall, the earnings of a jockey depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of race, the purse, and the jockey’s performance. Generally, a jockey can expect to make anywhere from $120-$400 per race day, in addition to a percentage of their winnings and any tips and gratuities they may receive. Jockeys may also receive endorsement deals, endorsement fees, race day fees, travel expenses, benefits, and other perks.
In conclusion, jockeys can make a good living, depending on their performance and the type of race they are competing in. Their earnings can range from $120-$400 per race day, in addition to a percentage of their winnings and any other tips, gratuities, endorsements, and fees they may receive.