Jockeys the crucial link in horseracing

Feb 15, 2011 Sports

While all or most of the attention is usually focused on the horses at the various horserace meets, especially those that do well, not much attention is placed on the persons who, by and large, are responsible for the performance of the animals. They are the jockeys.
The jockeys play an important part in the horses winning a race. Regardless how good a horse is, the jockey also has to perform to his best, he must be able to guide the horse through the race and know when to open up and when to hold back. He must be able to control the horse. The best thing for a rider as is in any sport he should be familiar with the horse.
The jockeys must be of a certain weight when riding the chosen animal as weight plays an important part in the horse racing game. He must also be physically fit. Many times jockeys are accused of throwing races and not riding to the best of their ability.
Some turfites and readers are familiar with some of the names of the various jockeys, but not much is said of the individuals. Although as was said before, information from the horseracing circle seems hard in coming, however Kaieteur Sports will carry pictures of some of the top riders in the country and some of whom will be in action on Sunday February 20 at Rising Sun/ Arima Park Turf Club when that entity stages their grand One day horse race meet on the West Coast Berbice.
These titans of the racetrack will be using their skill to ensure victory for the various stables and ensure fans are entertained. And for those betting fans, much interest will be turned to the jockeys who will be responsible for guiding their charges to victory and a pay day for all concerned.