Kentucky Derby - 5 Facts About Jockeys You Don't Know
- 12 years ago
Kentucky Durby - 5 Facts About Jockeys You Don't Know - as part of the news and politics series by GeoBeats.
Here are 5 uncommon facts about jockeys from the world of horse racing.
Number 5 - Given their short stature, it's commonly believed jockeys have height limits. However, in reality, they have weight limits to minimize impact on a horse. For example, in Kentucky Derby, a jockey's weight limit is 126 pounds. Average weight of a jockey is around 115 pounds.
Number 4 - According to CNBC, jockeys who don't end up in the first 3 places in Kentucky Derby, make a mere couple of hundred dollars. Only the winning horse's jockey reaps the big reward and walks away with a six-figure payout. The average income for a jockey in the industry is about $30,000.
Number 3 - Many of the jockeys are said to suffer from eating disorders as they have to keep their drastically low weight. It's not uncommon for them to use diet pills, saunas, and extreme exercise routines in order to stay within the typical weight range.
Number 2 - Each jockey wears specific colors that are decided by the owners. This tradition dates back to medieval ages. Today, the most elaborate demonstration of this practice can be seen in Siena, Italy.
Number 1 - Robot jockeys have started to replace jockeys in camel racing. Who knows, perhaps we may see them one day in Kentucky Derby as well.
Here are 5 uncommon facts about jockeys from the world of horse racing.
Number 5 - Given their short stature, it's commonly believed jockeys have height limits. However, in reality, they have weight limits to minimize impact on a horse. For example, in Kentucky Derby, a jockey's weight limit is 126 pounds. Average weight of a jockey is around 115 pounds.
Number 4 - According to CNBC, jockeys who don't end up in the first 3 places in Kentucky Derby, make a mere couple of hundred dollars. Only the winning horse's jockey reaps the big reward and walks away with a six-figure payout. The average income for a jockey in the industry is about $30,000.
Number 3 - Many of the jockeys are said to suffer from eating disorders as they have to keep their drastically low weight. It's not uncommon for them to use diet pills, saunas, and extreme exercise routines in order to stay within the typical weight range.
Number 2 - Each jockey wears specific colors that are decided by the owners. This tradition dates back to medieval ages. Today, the most elaborate demonstration of this practice can be seen in Siena, Italy.
Number 1 - Robot jockeys have started to replace jockeys in camel racing. Who knows, perhaps we may see them one day in Kentucky Derby as well.