Kentucky Derby Jockeys: Current Assignments & Historical Winning List

Each Kentucky Derby brings a new set of 3-year-olds to race on the biggest horse racing stage.  One constant is the familiar faces on top the backs of these horses. It only makes sense to provide these horses with the best jockeys.

These aren’t your typical athletes that you see across other sports. Jockeys are typically very small both in their height and weight. There’s no requirement on the height, but they are restricted given the weight limit of 126 lbs. Your typical jockey weighs somewhere between 108 to 118 lbs and usually around no bigger than 5’6.

While they aren’t big in size, there’s a great skill in controlling a horse around a track. Jockeys also run the risk of serious injury, but they aren’t exactly paid well for it. The first place Derby jockey will take 10% of the horses winnings, while second and third place get 5% each.

I highly recommend studying the jockeys in the field when betting the Kentucky Derby. An elite jockey can turn an average horse into a serious contender. At the same time, an inexperienced jockey can ruin the hopes of a top level horse.  Be sure to check out my Derby predictions for this year before placing your wager.

Jockeys Riding in 2018 Kentucky Derby: Assignments, Height & Weight

Each race has slightly different rules with regards to weight, but the Derby falls on the higher end of the spectrum.  Jockeys and their gear must weight between 112 and 126 pounds.  With the average amount of gear weighing 6-7 lbs., this means jockeys need to weigh 120 or less just to be able to ride in the race.  Considering this is on the high end of what most Jockeys weigh in at over the course of their season, most have no issues meeting this requirement.

The table below lists all of the potential horses running in this year’s race and their jockeys (where available).

*Weights in this table are estimates based approximate past racing weights.

Triple Crown History: Past Derby Champion Jockeys (1875-Present)

The following table is a complete list of every winning jockey in the race’s history.  You will note there are several repeat winners, which always sparks debate over just how much influence these riders have on the outcome of the competition.  While successful jockeys are given great horses to ride in big races, and it is their job to ride to their horse’s strengths, it is impossible to deny that they have a significant impact.

Other Derby Articles

• Money Bet on Derby
• Betting Results & Payouts