How to become a Track Rider

Track Rider

Track riders exercise racehorses on behalf of horse trainers so that they may be fit for racing.

Personal requirements for a Track Rider

  • Enjoy working with horses
  • Able to cope with the physical demands of the job
  • Light build
  • Good communication skills
  • Enjoy outdoor work

Education & Training for a Track Rider

To become a track rider you usually have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become a track rider through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.


Additional information

You must be licensed in order to work as a track rider. To qualify for a licence, you must undergo a medical assessment. You may also be required to fulfill training requirements and obtain a National Police Certificate.

Duties & Tasks of a Track Rider

Track riders:

  • Follow an exercise training program laid out by the horse trainer
  • Walk, gallop and trot horses regularly, according to the training program
  • Make reports to the trainer on horses' progress and performance
  • Monitor horses' health and temperament and report signs of injury and illness
  • Perform stable duties such as washing, feeding and saddling horses.

Tasks

  • Undertakes sports promotional activities and television appearances.
  • Decides on strategies in consultation with coaches.
  • Adheres to the rules and regulations associated with horse racing.
  • Maintains a high degree of expertise in horse riding.
  • Attends regular practice sessions and undertakes private training to maintain the required standard of fitness.
  • Assesses other competitors and conditions at venues.
  • Competes in racing trials and events.

Working conditions for a Track Rider

Track riders often work early mornings in order to avoid the heat of the day. They may also work weekend and afternoon shifts. Many work in part-time positions for multiple employers.


Employment Opportunities for a Track Rider

Track riders are employed by horse trainers and may find work at racetracks around Australia. There are also opportunities for freelance work as many track riders work for more than one employer.


Specializations

Track Rider

Track riders exercise racehorses on behalf of horse trainers so that they may be fit for racing.

  • Average age
    Average age
    30 years
  • Future Growth
    Future Growth
    Very strong
  • Gender Share
    Gender Share
    32% female
  • Average full-time
    Average full-time
    49 hours
  • Weekly Pay
    Weekly Pay
    $1,548
  • Skill level rating
    Skill level rating
    Medium skill
  • Unemployment
    Unemployment
    Lower unemployment
  • Full-Time Share
    Full-Time Share
    70% Full-Time
  • Employment Size
    Employment Size
    580 workers
  • Employment Size
    Employment by state
    ACT: 0.5%
    NSW: 26.0%
    NT: 1.0%
    QLD: 26.5%
    SA: 5.7%
    TAS: 1.9%
    VIC: 27.6%
    WA: 10.7%
  • Employment Size
    Age brackets
    15-19: 6.4%
    20-24: 24.1%
    25-34: 31%
    35-44: 23.6%
    45-54: 11.5%
    55-59: 1.6%
    60-64: 0.9%
    65 and Over: 0.9%
  • Employment Size
    Education level
    Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 5.2%
    Bachelor degree: 0%
    Certificate III/IV: 51%
    Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 0%
    Year 10 and below: 25.7%
    Year 11: 4.7%
    Year 12: 13.4%
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