DID YOU KNOW?

ALMOST every jockey employs a valet, who is responsible for all the rider’s kit apart from colours. The valet is responsible for making sure the jockey with their riding equipment is within a few ounces of their racing weight when they go to weigh out. Valets are licensed by the British Horseracing Authority and pay a licence fee. They are not allowed to bet and must switch off mobile phones during racing. A Flat jockey pays a valet £15.71 for the first ride, £10.04 for the second and £8.18 for subsequent rides at a meeting. Over jumps, the corresponding fees are £17.16, £12.86 and £8.58. Flat jockeys receive a fee of £124.40 per ride, whether it’s in the Ascot Gold Cup or a lowly handicap. Jump jockeys receive £169.85 a ride.