Jockey Valet

The jockey valet attends to the jockey at the racetrack performing various tasks to assist before and after a race. For example, a jockey valet saddles horses and if necessary inserts lead pads in saddle pad pockets to meet weight specifications for a particular race, as well as placing numbers on the saddlecloth to correspond with the jockey’s horse entry number in the race. He or she also reads the color assignment chart and obtains the specific color of silks assigned from the color room. The jockey valet assists the jockey to dress for the race, unsaddles the horse after the race and returns the riding equipment to the storage area. Basic care and maintenance are also the responsibility of the valet, such as cleaning the saddles, washing silks, and shining boots for the jockey. The valet works for usually only one rider.

To be a jockey valet an individual must be a high school graduate. The valet must also have a good working knowledge of the horses and riders’ equipment. The Valet should have significant experience working with and around horses, especially in confined situations and have knowledge of good horsemanship. The valet should be familiar with jockey quarters and have an understanding of Thoroughbred racing. Very good people skills and the ability to work without direct supervision are critical qualifications of this job. Any person who participates in horse racing is required to be licensed in their specific area and this includes the valet.

The income of a jockey valet can range from $35,000 a year to $70,000 a year. They are paid a fee for each race and the get bonuses for each win. The valet receives 5 to 10 percent of the rider’s earnings.