The difficult life of a steeplechase jockey

How did you get into equestrian sports? Gabriele Agus: “My father was a well-known flat jockey and so my path was actually already mapped out. Growing up with horses from a young age, I started my training as a jockey in 2012 and also won my first flat race.” Who were your teachers? “For the first two years I trained as a flat jockey in Marseille, then I returned to Italy and had the opportunity to gain experience in Stefano Botti’s stable.” But they soon moved to the obstacle camp. Why? “It was primarily weight problems that motivated me to do this. I then began training as a steeplechase jockey with Guy Cherel before accepting Raffaele Romano’s offer in 2017.” 6 years have passed since then. What is your balance as a young jockey? “I was able to learn a lot from Raffaele Romano at work and in the races. There were ups and downs in these years. But overall, and especially with this season, I’m very happy.” What made you particularly happy about this season? “I won 16 races this year and had the opportunity to ride such strong horses as Ballinsco, Velo Dipinto, Zain Master and Domani Risplendi.” What was the highlight of the season? “Without a doubt Ballinsco’s ride in the Grand Prix. Except for the back straight, I was even able to dream of victory. I was able to fully enjoy the special atmosphere of the race and despite finishing 5th, I am overall satisfied with the race.” Why are fewer and fewer young people taking up the profession of obstacle jockey? “The job of a jockey involves a lot of hardships. You have to pay attention to your weight, the work is dangerous and very poorly paid. These are all factors that I think discourage young people.” What would it take to make the profession more attractive again? “First and foremost, like in France, we need a jockey school where young people are trained. Then we need coaches who are willing to support young talents and give them a chance in the race. But this is hardly the case in Italy at the moment.” Why? “Because the number of racing days and races has steadily decreased. This increases the pressure on the trainers and they prefer to rely on experienced jockeys from abroad.” Would you take up the profession of jockey again? "That is a difficult question. This is supported by the close bond with the horses and the associated emotions in the races. But the low financial security, the low status of the profession in society and the high risk of injury are valid counterarguments.”

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The difficult life of a steeplechase jockey

His father Palmiero was a trademark on the Italian flat tracks, he is the future hope among Italian obstacle jockeys: In an interview, 26-year-old Gabriele Agus gives an insight into life in a sport that requires a lot of sacrifice and receives little recognition.

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