The Apprentice Jockeys’ School at The Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Talent Training Centre (RTTC) has been shaping Hong Kong’s top trainers, jockeys, and equestrian professionals for over 50 years. With its internationally accredited training programme, the RTTC invites aspiring young talents to ‘gallop into the future’ with The Hong Kong Jockey Club as applications for the latest intake of Racing Trainees is open until 4 July, 2025, offering a pathway to careers as jockeys, work riders, farriers, equestrian assistants, and veterinary clinical technicians in the horse racing industry.

Racing Trainee applicants must be aged 15 or above and have completed Form 3 or higher education. There are no height limits or prior riding experience required. The reference weights of apprentice jockeys and work riders are approximately 105lb and 125lb, respectively. Candidates who are diligent and possess a positive and proactive attitude, as well as having a passion and aptitude for sports are encouraged to apply.

Riding instructors at the Apprentice Jockeys’ School will conduct riding and fitness tests in July and August to select potential candidates for shortlisting and enrolment in an orientation camp. The top 25 applicants will then be selected to join the programme.

Amy Chan, Head of Racing Talent Training and Headmistress of the Apprentice Jockeys’ School, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “Horse racing is a sport which embodies a rich legacy of history, passion and skill. For over five decades, we have evolved with times while staying committed to nurturing well-rounded professionals to honour Hong Kong’s racing heritage while maintaining our global standing as we continue to drive the sport forward.”

The Apprentice Jockeys’ School adopts a Dual Education System, combining school-based learning with vocational training. This approach equips Racing Trainees with a diverse skill set, preparing them for a range of differing roles within the industry.

Racing Trainees will study a comprehensive curriculum, including riding, stable management, physical training, financial management and traditional academic subjects. Racing Trainees will have the opportunity to train overseas, gaining international exposure and cultural experiences before returning to Hong Kong.

Ellis Wong, current apprentice jockey, joined the Apprentice Jockeys’ School as a Racing Trainee in 2017. He has expressed that “The School has given me more than just a solid foundation in riding and fitness. I’m really encouraged to have been riding more winners recently, which I attribute to the professional mindset and disciplined approach instilled in me through the training. I’ve learned to think about and approach things with focus, preparation, and positivity.”

After completing the training programme, graduates will receive a certificate equivalent to Level 1 to Level 3, accredited by The Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications.

Candidates who wish to obtain further details about the Racing Trainees Programme and applying can visit the RTTC website at www.hkjc.com/rttc.

For more than half a century, The Hong Kong Jockey Club has provided top-tier racing training through the Apprentice Jockeys’ School. Its graduates have gone on to achieve extraordinary success, among them legendary jockey-turned-trainer Tony Cruz, who has excelled in many jurisdictions around the world as well as champion trainers Ricky Yiu and Francis Lui, and standout homegrown jockey Vincent Ho.