Jockeys

Although some jockeys have won purses in the million dollar range, even the highest-paid jockeys in America earn less than the top performers in other sports. Generally, they receive mount fees and a percentage of the purse or overall winnings of a race. For example, if a purse is $3,000, a jockey usually gets 10 percent, or $300 if his or her horse wins the race. Jockeys receive smaller percentages for placing or showing (second and third places), and only receive the basic mount fee if the horse isn't in the top three.

Purses depend on the track where a race is being held. A few purses are for as much as $1 million, although these are exceptions, according to the Jockeys' Guild.

All this means is that after the sound of the cheering crowds has died down, the winning jockey can't just take home his or her winnings. In addition to having to pay any travel expenses not covered through the agreement with the owner whose horse he or she rides, the jockey must pay out to his or her agent and valet a predetermined amount.

According to Equibase, the top jockeys of all time earned between $340 million and $415 million during their careers, but these are exceptions. In December 2018, Career Trend reported that most jockeys had annual salaries that ranged from $30,000 to $40,000. According to the North American Racing Academy, the least successful riders will earn about $20,000 per year.