Racing is one of the most iconic sports in the world, and jockeys are some of the most recognizable figures in racing. From the Kentucky Derby to the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the jockey is the one who makes the difference between a winning horse and a losing one. But what does a successful jockey actually get paid?
Jockeys are paid on a per-race basis, so the amount they make in a year is dependent on the number of races they run. That said, the salary of a jockey is based on a variety of factors, including their experience, the type of race, and the race’s purse size. Generally, the more successful a jockey is, the more money they make.
Base Salary
Before we dive into what a successful jockey can make, let’s look at the base salary of a jockey. According to the Jockeys Guild, the average base salary for a jockey is $43,000 per year. This is the amount of money a jockey makes for simply competing in races, not taking into account any winnings or other bonuses.
Winning Purses
In addition to their base salary, jockeys can also make money by winning races. The amount of money a jockey can make from a winning purse is dependent on the type of race, the purse size, and the jockey’s standing in the racing world.
- In Thoroughbred racing, the jockey’s cut of the purse is typically 10%.
- In Harness racing, the jockey’s cut is typically around 5%.
- In Steeplechase racing, the jockey’s cut is typically around 15%.
For example, let’s say a jockey wins a Thoroughbred race with a $1 million purse. The jockey’s cut of that purse would be $100,000. Of course, the amount of money a jockey can make from winning races is limited by the number of races they win.
Bonuses
In addition to their winnings, jockeys can also make money through bonuses. Bonuses are typically awarded for winning major races, like the Kentucky Derby or the Preakness Stakes. These bonuses can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Endorsements
Many successful jockeys also make money through endorsements. Endorsement deals can range from clothing companies to sports drink companies. Endorsement deals can be quite lucrative, with some jockeys making hundreds of thousands of dollars from endorsements alone.
Sponsorships
Jockeys can also make money through sponsorships. Sponsorships are typically paid out in the form of cash, but they can also come in the form of free promotional materials or products. Jockeys typically receive sponsorships from horse breeders, horse owners, and racetracks.
Other Sources of Income
In addition to the sources of income mentioned above, jockeys can also make money through other sources. Many jockeys work as trainers or as riding instructors, and they can make money through private lessons or other teaching engagements. Jockeys can also make money through investments and private partnerships, as well as through appearances at events and conventions.
How Much Does a Winning Jockey Make?
So, how much does a winning jockey actually make? The answer to that question is dependent on a variety of factors, including the number of races they run and the type of races they win. Generally, a successful jockey can expect to make anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000 per year.
High-Earning Jockeys
Of course, some jockeys make much more than that. The highest-earning jockeys in the world can make millions of dollars per year. The world’s highest-earning jockey in 2019 was Frankie Dettori, who earned over $11 million.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salary of a jockey is dependent on a variety of factors, including their experience, the type of race, and the race’s purse size. Jockeys typically make their money through their base salary, winning purses, bonuses, endorsements, sponsorships, and other sources of income. On average, a successful jockey can expect to make anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000 per year, though some jockeys make much more than that.