A Work Rider is responsible for exercising, schooling, and developing racehorses to improve their fitness, balance, responsiveness, and overall race-readiness.
This role focuses on riding duties rather than general yard work and is vital to a horse’s performance in training.
Average starting salary
Above National Minimum Wage
Average hours per week
40 hours
Job availability
High
Experience
Riding experience needed.
Main Duties of a Work Rider
Ride a variety of horses according to their fitness, age, and training needs.
Carry out specific instructions from trainers or head riders.
Ride on gallops, in schooling rings and other spaces when needed.
Provide feedback on how horses perform, feel, and behave during work.
Maintain safety standards when handling and riding high-performance horses.
What the role requires
Calm, confident, and adaptable rider, usually at an Advanced (A1) level.
High level of awareness in the saddle.
Observation of horse behaviour and welfare whilst riding.
Communicate concise feedback on individual racehorses.
Desirable Skills
Ability to work independently and take instructions.
Strong knowledge of the racing industry.
Understand and use a variety of tack.
Fitness and pace knowledge.
Working Conditions
Physical, outdoor work in all weather conditions.
Early morning starts.
Benefits
Typically paid per horse, depending on experience and the yard.
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