I am turning 16 soon and wanted to become an exercise rider. I have ridden all different types of horses and styles of riding from jumpers, western ,polo, foxhunting, and point to points. I was wondering how i would go about becoming an exercise rider. What is the age limit? Is there a weight limit like jockeys, and if so what? And What certification is needed? i am hoping to get a job exercising over the summer. any help would be appreciated thank you.
Try finding a reputable farm in your area with someone experienced to teach you the ropes. In most states you have to be 16 to get a license, there is no weight limit, but most trainers want someone light (not over 135-140) to gallop and breeze.
You will need to gallop for the outrider before obtaining your license (in most states) and have a trainer sign for you.
The new age requirements at Penn National are 18 or high school grad., proof of health insurance, 2 trainers signatures, one outrider, one racing secretary, and stewards signatures. Fingerprints, and piss test.
There have been several threads along a similar theme - how to become an exercise rider. I would suggest a search of the racing forum as some of those threads might still be available.
[QUOTE=brightskyfarm;3867402]
The new age requirements at Penn National are 18 or high school grad., proof of health insurance, 2 trainers signatures, one outrider, one racing secretary, and stewards signatures. Fingerprints, and piss test.[/QUOTE]
WHEW! my hubby didn’t have to go through that much to get his trainer license!
[QUOTE=QHJockee;3868386]
WHEW! my hubby didn’t have to go through that much to get his trainer license![/QUOTE]
Exactly. Trainer’s license allows you to gallop. It’s easier to get your trainer’s license than exercise license.
[QUOTE=DickHertz;3868545]
Exactly. Trainer’s license allows you to gallop. It’s easier to get your trainer’s license than exercise license.[/QUOTE]
Haha. Not in NY.
[QUOTE=DickHertz;3868545]
Exactly. Trainer’s license allows you to gallop. It’s easier to get your trainer’s license than exercise license.[/QUOTE]
That’s not true in a bunch of states…
[QUOTE=horsetrot22;3866917]
I am turning 16 soon and wanted to become an exercise rider. I have ridden all different types of horses and styles of riding from jumpers, western ,polo, foxhunting, and point to points. I was wondering how i would go about becoming an exercise rider. What is the age limit? Is there a weight limit like jockeys, and if so what? And What certification is needed? i am hoping to get a job exercising over the summer. any help would be appreciated thank you.[/QUOTE]
Where are you located? And what point to points? I ask because you have to be 16 to point to points as well, except pony races and junior field master’s chases.
[QUOTE=DickHertz;3868545]
Exactly. Trainer’s license allows you to gallop. It’s easier to get your trainer’s license than exercise license.[/QUOTE]
Or in Ontario 
It would help to know where the OP is located to give more specific advice. Or if the OP is willing to travel.
I have only done hunt club point to points , and am located in new jersey, unfortunetly i cannot travel far to work but if i could find something local. If any one Knows of any thing in the flemington, nj area it would be great. Thank you all for the advice its been very helpful!
At Penn and all pa tracks, you have to cross-license for all you do…if you pony, need one – if you gallop, need one of those, if you train…separate, as an owner, and stable employee… best to check
each track/state at the front office rather than by word of mouth…
