Maintaining this race weight is a daily task for most jockeys and strict dieting and conditioning programs are a constant concern. Handicapping jockeys is easier than handicapping horses. The better riders get to ride the better horses. Because they get the best horses to ride, the best jockeys win the most races. It's a circle.
Success breeds success.
It is no accident that Laffit Pincay, Jr. is the world's winningest rider. Next to the horse, in thoroughbred racing, the public is most familiar with the jockeys. It's important for bettors to know the top riders at a track. The best will win the most races. But watch out, just like trainers, jockeys get hot and cold.