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the gateway to competitive racing

Riding in a point-to-point is fast, thrilling and adrenaline pumping – certainly not for everyone!

Pointing offers a variety of options depending on your ambition, experience and reason for race-riding.

70% of professional jockeys started their career in point-to-pointing and 48% of jockeys are female.

point-to-point jockeys

This could be you… 

challenge for titleS

experienced RIDER

Top point-to-point riders such as Gina Andrews, Izzie Hill, Will Biddick, James King and Josh Newman have been pointing for many years and challenge for the leading rider championships.

Could you be the next champion point-to-point jockey?

championship leaderboards

enjoy pointing as a hobby

NOVICE RIDER

Enjoy your weekends riding. As a novice rider you can claim a 5lb weight allowance across most race categories until your 10th win.

 

point-to-point jockeys

become a professional

Stepping stone

Start riding in point-to-points to gain your essential race experience before taking the next step to becoming a professional jockey.

start your journey

How to Get Started

  1. Meet the Basic Requirements

    You must be 16+ years of age, fit, healthy, confident and good with horses

  2. pass a rider assessment

    First time riders must pass an assessment with a licensed BHA Jockey Coach

  3. pass a medical

    First time riders must complete BHA Medical Form NMED19 with their GP

  4. GET your RQC and MRB

    Every rider must apply annually for Riders Qualification Certificate (RQC) and be in possession of a Medical Record Book (MRB). Both are issued by the Point-to-Point Authority office

  5. find a jockey coach

    Although not a regulatory requirement we recommend every that every rider should have regular jockey coaching lessons, particularly in their 1st and 2nd years

    The PPA have a number of initiatives encouraging riders to use registered Jockey Coaches

Testimonials

Jockey
FAQs

Is there a minimum and maximum age to ride in a point to-point?

YES

You must be 16 years of age or above. There is no maximum age but there are a number of enhanced medical requirements as you get older.

Do I need to have my own horse?

NO

Although it’s usually best to have your own horse when you start as you will have a connection with it

Do I need a licence?

YES

You need a point-to-point Riders Qualifications Certificate (RQC) which you apply for annually

You will also need to be in possession of a Medical Record Book (MRB) to show you are medically cleared to ride

Both are available through the PPA office

What is a Riders Qualification Certificate (RQC)?

The  RQC is your official licence to compete, confirming that you meet all requirements set out by the sport’s governing body

An RQC is issued annually and is specific to Point-to-Point racing. It is different from a professional jockey’s licence but serves the same purpose within the amateur Point-to-Point world

How much does a Riders Qualification Certificate (RQC) cost?

RQC costs are heavily subsidised by the Point-to-Point Authority to make pointing as accessible as possible. Most of the cost is for rider indemnity cover and insurance cover

  • First year riders £95
  • Second year riders £140
  • Third year + riders £195

 

 

Do I need lessons from a Jockey Coach?

NO BUT IDEALLY YES

Although not essential we strongly encourage everyone, particularly in their first and second year of riding, to have ongoing Jockey Coaching lessons.

Every rider who has regular jockey coaching sees their ability and fitness improve, adopting good habits and eradicating bad habits. The PPA have a number of subsidised jockey coaching initiatives and a list of recommended registered Jockey Coaches.

 

What is a Medical Record Book (MRB)?

The Medical Record Book (MRB) ensures you are medically allowed to ride in a point-to-point. It is issued by the PPA with your original riders licence and must be shown on race day to allow you to ride. If you have lost your MRB please contact the PPA office as soon as possible for a replacement

Can I ride without a Medical Record Book (MRB)?

NO

The Medical Record Book (MRB) ensures a rider is medically allowed to ride. If you have lost or forgotten your MRB on race-day you will not be allowed to ride as it must be presented on the day.

What should I do if I think someone is concussed?

CONCUSSION IS SERIOUS SO DON’T IGNORE IT

Quite often a person will not know they are concussed. If not dealt with properly and quickly concussion can lead to serious long term health issues.

If you think you or someone else is concussed on race-day speak to an on-course Doctor, Medic or Steward.

If you are worried someone is discussed any time time please contact medical@britishhorseracing.com.

Do I need insurance?

NOT NECCESSARILY

Point-to-Point riders are covered by the PPA’s umbrella insurance cover on the day

However, we do encourage riders to have their own additional insurance