Top jockeys may have up to 1,000 rides per year and earn tens of thousands of dollars in prize money and sponsorship. On the other end of the scale, jockeys struggle to secure 200-300 rides each year, and these are frequently in races with tiny prize money. Only very top jockeys ever come close to earning a living solely from riding. In any given year, there are on average about 20,000 horse races held in America. Of those, about 1 in 5 offers any prize money at all, and only about 1 in 100 offers any real opportunity for jockeys to make good money. The remaining 99% are either no race at all or something so low-profile that it would be impossible for a jockey to qualify for even lower-status prizes such as place or show. There are several ways a jockey can improve his chances of getting rides. He can work hard, learn how to ride "style," get help from connections, or accept some dangerous horses. Most jockeys try to do everything they can to get rides, but some tactics employed by fellow riders or owners can prevent them from finding jobs. Jockeys usually start out as apprentices working for local trainers or owners. This gives them experience and time to learn the sport, but also means they are not making any money.