Jockeying for position

Jockeys will sometimes race in several events on Cup Day. If affiliated to a big stable, they may also have to undertake track work early in the morning, before having a sauna or rest prior to racing. Flemington, like other racecourses, has separate rooms for male and female jockeys, where they can watch the races on television and relax when not competing.

Jockeys are elite athletes, requiring strength, stamina and fitness to handle their charges. The pressures of weight restrictions, the inherent dangers of the sport and the lack of job security make being a jockey a challenging job. Today, the minimum weight for a jockey to ride in Australia is 53 kg, including the saddle and all riding and safety equipment.