There are some huge names throughout the history of horse racing that have impacted the sport in numerous ways, inspiring new generations, or even attracting fans due to performing some of the most incredible moments in sports history. Horse racing has brought so many iconic moments that have cemented the names of both jockeys and horses in the sporting history books, up there with some of the top athletes from around the world. We have seen many revolutionary figures and trailblazers within the sport, so with that being said, today, Boyle Casino will be highlighting the top 10 most influential horse racing jockeys of all time.
Bill Shoemaker
Bill Shoemaker’s career lasted over 4 decades, during which he rode more than 8,800 winners, including his 4 Kentucky Derby victories, and a whopping 11 Triple Crown wins. He is celebrated for his intelligence when riding, which set completely new standards for aspiring jockeys around the world, especially inspiring a new wave of American fans. His presence in major races drew widespread public and media attention, helping elevate the profile of jockeys as respected athletes and inspiring generations of riders who followed in his footsteps.
Lester Piggott
Lester Piggott was one of the defining figures of British flat racing, winning the Epsom Derby nine times and claiming thirty British Classic victories. His levels of consistency and unique riding style were what gained him public interest, helping to attract people to the sport. Piggott’s career lasted over 5 decades, becoming a household name and influencing countless number of jockeys, modernising the racing standard, becoming an iconic name in horse racing, as well as British sport.
Eddie Arcaro
Eddie Arcaro was a huge figure when it came to American horse racing during the mid-20th century, remembered mostly for being the only jockey to win the Triple Crown twice and riding some of the most iconic horses. He played a huge part in establishing the Jockeys ‘ Guild, which changed the sport forever, giving riders better support and a voice. Arcaro’s charm and deep knowledge of racing made him a household name, helping to draw public attention to the sport and inspiring countless young jockeys.
Frankie Dettori
Frankie Dettori combined talent, flair and charisma to become a global face of flat racing. His career boasts multiple major victories, including six Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe wins and a legendary day at Royal Ascot when he won all seven races on a single card. Dettori’s showmanship brought so much unexpected media attention to horse racing, which put it in the spotlight, attracting millions of new viewers. Horse racing had seen a massive spike in viewership and spectators thanks to the Italian jockey, who consistently shocked fans around the world with his professionalism, combined with his incredible personality.
Yutaka Take
Yutaka Take is celebrated as Japan’s most successful jockey, achieving over 4,500 wins and dominating Grade 1 races at home and abroad. His consistency and skill have inspired a generation of Japanese riders, while his international successes helped raise the profile of Japanese racing worldwide. Take’s longevity and professionalism have made him an iconic figure, demonstrating the potential for jockeys to achieve both domestic dominance and global recognition, and cementing his influence on racing in Asia and beyond.
Sir Gordon Richards
Sir Gordon Richards is one of Britain’s most influential horse racing names of all time, having accumulated over 4,870 wins and a record 26-time British champion jockey. He was the first flat jockey to receive a knighthood for his contribution to not just horse racing, but sport in general, with dedication and professionalism like no other. Richards’ standards of excellence and consistency shaped British flat racing for decades, inspiring generations of riders to pursue longevity and success with the same commitment.
Ruby Walsh
Ruby Walsh became the most successful jockey in Cheltenham Festival history, securing 59 winners and eleven leading rider titles. Renowned for the tactical racing style that helped him dominate almost every major hunt race in the UK and Ireland. His catalogue of trophies ranges from Gold Cups to Champion Hurdles, with his prolific achievements being one of the most recognised in British sports. He demonstrated professionalism, courage, and consistency throughout his career, helping to elevate the sport and inspire a whole new generation to get involved in horse racing.
Rachael Blackmore
Rachael Blackmore has transformed jump racing with historic achievements, including becoming the first woman to win the Grand National and securing multiple Cheltenham Festival victories. Her tactical intelligence consistency throughout a race is what allows her to stand out as one of the top jockeys in the sport’s history, breaking the rules and empowering women involved with horse racing. Blackmore’s influence was noticed by sports fans around the world, not in regard to her victories, but for playing a huge role in increasing women’s visibility in sport.
