Racetrack Outrider

The Equinest; Arlington (TX); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Equinest is seeking an experienced outrider to join our racetrack team. This mounted role involves guiding horses to the gates, maintaining order during procession, and coordinating with trainers and jockeys to keep everything safe.

Candidates should bring strong riding ability, calm composure, and a proven track record on the grounds. No formal education is required; prior track or grooming experience is valued, with opportunities to advance within our track operations.

Qualifications

• This position benefits from prior track experience and riding ability.
• Trainers and track managers will value hands-on experience with horses.

Responsibilities

• Lead horses to the starting gates and maintain order during the procession.
• Work closely with trainers and jockeys to ensure safety.
• Enforce basic track rules.
• Chase down runaways.
• Chase down any early starters.
• Sound alarms to notify rider injuries.
• Lead animals for morning exercise.
• Open and close the track at the beginning and end of the day.
• Coordinate with other track personnel.
• Oversee morning exercise routines and maintain order.

Skills

Track knowledge

Riding skills

Keen senses

Job description

Perhaps one of the most favored & sought after jobs at the track is that of outrider. A mounted position this one offers a great deal of contact with the animals, along with the responsibility that comes along with it.

What You Need

This is a position which benefits from a great deal of track knowledge, superb riding skills and keen senses. Not only are they mounted, but they are responsible for making sure the racehorses make it to the gate safely. Often outriders use their own mounts, allowing them to be comfortable in the saddle and able to turn their attention elsewhere.

A calm demeanor, physical strength and a tireless attitude are all key elements of a successful outrider.

Job Description

Responsible for leading horses to the starting gates and keeping things orderly during the procession. They work closely with trainers & jockeys to ensure everyone gets around safely.

Responsibilities

• Basic rule enforcement
• Leading animals to starting gates
• Chasing down run aways
• Chasing down any early starters
• Sounding the alarm to notify rider injury
• Leading animals for morning exercise
• Opening & closing the track at the beginning & end of the day
• Coordinating with other track personnel
• Overseeing morning exercise routines & maintaining order

Requirements

This position doesn’t require any formal education to acquire. Trainers & Track Managers will be far more concerned with previous track & riding experience. Often these jobs are given to grooms and others who are working their way up through the ranks.

However it never hurts to have formal equine jockey school experience when looking for a job at the racetrack.

The Right Job For You?

If this isn’t your dream horse job, you can find more horse job descriptions on our careers page .

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