Jockey risk increased by inexperienced horses

A jockey faces a life or career ending fall from their horse once every 240 races. But what are the factors that contribute to it?

The sex of the jockey, their experience, the number of rides the jockey has participated in that day, and the state of the track, according to a Menzies Research Institute study which looked at flat races track flat races between 2002 and 2006.

But it's not all about the jockey. The researchers found that younger horse age, drier track rating, shorter race distance, lower field size, lower race grade and prize money are also factors.

“Applying appropriate interventions to prevent falls requires an understanding of the numerous risk factors that are associated with these falls,” said Menzies’ Senior Member and Principal Research Fellow, Associate Professor Leigh Blizzard.