Important Notice
No. NARA will provide all the horses necessary for instruction.
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NARA will provide all the tack, including saddles and bridles. Students must bring their own boots and approved helmets and safety vests. Second year students will be required to provide their own racing saddle and girth.
From start to finish, it will take a minimum of two years of training to graduate from the program and become a professional jockey.
The students will be responsible for feeding, grooming and exercising at least two horses each day. They will spend approximately three hours each day completing their chores in the barn while learning about horse care, approximately one hour riding on the track, and approximately another hour working out on a mechanical horse. Additionally, approximately 3 hours per day will be spent in the classroom.
There are a limited number of dorms available at the University of Kentucky's campus at a cost of approximately $500/month per student. Our students are able to find an apartment for between $450/month to $650/month.
Virtually every other country that conducts racing requires jockeys to attend a recognized school for training. Surprisingly, the United States has never had a top-class, internationally recognized school for jockeys. The horse racing industry in North America needed a place to train individuals who desire to become jockeys.
NARA horses will come from private donations and possibly organizations like the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.
Gender: male or female
You must have a high school diploma or GED. If you do not have a high school diploma or GED you must take the Compass test and reach minimum scores for entrance to the program. International students must meet a minimum TOFEL score.
Yes. NARA will provide job placement assistance by introducing each student to a licensed and qualified trainer who is already established in the racing industry.