The role of a jockey in the sport of horse racing is often underestimated. However, jockeys play a very important role in horse racing. Known for their small stature, excellent horsemanship and expertise in reading a race, jockeys are a key part of the horse racing process. Jockeys are typically small in stature to allow them to be light enough to ride in a race. They must also be agile and very athletic in order to stay balanced on a galloping horse. In addition to their physical abilities, jockeys must also have an extensive knowledge of a horse’s temperament and how to race competitively. They must be able to read a race and read their horse to make sure they are in the best position to win. A jockey’s job is considered very dangerous because they are in close proximity to other racers, in a very competitive atmosphere. At the same time, jockeys make a vital contribution to the world of racing. A jockey’s skill and experience can be the difference between a win and a loss and make the sport of horse racing exciting and unpredictable. Jockeys make the racing experience for both the horse and the spectator more enjoyable, and without these expert riders, horse racing wouldn't be the same.