Horse Careers: At the Racetrack, Backside
The following career pathway and salary information was provided by the Kentucky Equine Education Project. Salary ranges are averages for Thoroughbred industry-related jobs.
Trainer
Description: A track trainer is responsible for the overall health and performance of each horse in their care, from feeding schedules to training performance to routine vet visits.
Average Annual Earnings: $40,000 - $60,000 +
Work Experience Required: 5+ years
On-the-Job Training: Long-Term
Minimum Education Required: High School Diploma/GED plus Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license
Assistant Trainer
Average Annual Earnings: $40,800
Work Experience Required: Less than 5 yrs
On-the-Job Training: Moderate-Term
Minimum Education Required: High School Diploma/GED plus Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license
Jockey
Description: Jockeys are responsible for taking their horse across the finish line first. Jockeys train intensively and must work to maintain a specific body weight at all times (most are between 108 and 118 pounds).
Average Annual Earnings: $30,000 - $50,000 +/-
Work Experience Required: Less than 5 years
On-the-Job Training: Moderate - term
Minimum Education Required: North American Racing Academy, Racing Officials Accreditation Program license.
Video: A Day in the Life a Jockey - Mike Smith
Exercise Rider
Description: An exercise rider is responsible for riding horses during their morning workouts, introducing racehorses to the starting gate process and providing feedback to the trainer regarding the horse’s condition. The weight requirements for an exercise rider are not as strict as they are for a jockey.
Average Earnings: $500 - $700+ per week or $10 -$15/horse
Work Experience Required: 1+ years
On-the-Job Training: Moderate - term
Minimum Education Required: Racing Officials Accreditation Program license
Outrider
Description: An outrider is on horseback and is responsible for leading horses to the starting gates and keeping things orderly during the procession. They work closely with trainers & jockeys to ensure everyone gets around safely.
Average Annual Earnings: $20,000 -$45,000+/year
Work Experience Required: Less than 5 years
On-the-Job Training: Moderate - term
Minimum Education Required: Racing Officials Accreditation Program license
Barn Foreman
Description: A barn foreman typically works for a trainer and manages the barn employees, training schedules, routine health appointments, and barn maintenance. Barn foremen typically live close to the track so they are available in an emergency.
Average Annual Earnings:$28,050
Work Experience Required: Less than 5 yrs
On-the-Job Training: Moderate-term
Minimum Education Required: High School Diploma/GED, plus Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license
Groom
Description: A groom is the direct caretaker of one or multiple horses, and is typically in charge of keeping horses clean, checking them for health issues, preparing horses for training or work, and communicating information about the horse to the owners, trainers, and managers. They may also be in charge of feeding the horses and mucking stalls.
Average Annual Earnings: $25,500
Work Experience Required: Less than one year
On-the-Job Training: Short-term
Minimum Education Required: High School Diploma/GED, plus Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license
Hot Walker
Description: A hot walker is responsible for removing tack post-workout or race and keeping the horses moving until they are fully cooled out and ready to be put away. The groom may perform these duties in smaller operations.
Average Annual Earnings:$15,300
Work Experience Required: Less than one year
On-the-Job Training: Short-term
Minimum Education Required: High School Diploma/GED, plus Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license