Singapore jockeys explore licensing options in Australia

Following the announcement that horse racing will cease in Singapore from October 2024, Victorian Jockeys Association (VJA) chief Matt Hyland reports a surge of interest from Singapore-based riders looking to explore licensing options in Australia.

Hyland revealed that the queries started pouring in less than 24 hours post-announcement, illustrating the immediate global implications of the closure of a racing jurisdiction.

“They are working out what the process is to be licensed in Victoria, which can be said is already a very competitive market,” Hyland stated.

He anticipates a potential exodus from Singapore’s racing industry in the coming months as the deadline looms, despite the closure being more than two years away.

Amid the influx of interest, the VJA has proposed a criteria to Racing Victoria to regulate the licensing of overseas riders.

This proposal aims to maintain balance in the market and safeguard opportunities for locally based riders.

“We’ve already had a steady flow of riders from Ireland and New Zealand and the like relocating in recent times, especially since the COVID restrictions have lifted, and it’s important not to flood the market.” Hyland elaborated.

The VJA believes that meeting a certain level of competency should be mandatory for riders looking to relocate, emphasizing that riding in Victoria should be seen as a privilege given the abundance of local talent.

Currently, Victoria boasts approximately 140 professional licensed jockeys, excluding picnic riders.