Definition of an Apprentice Allowance

An apprentice allowance is a term used in horse racing to describe a weight concession offered to apprentice jockeys during their initial races. This concession helps novice jockeys gain valuable race experience.

  1. Identification

    • Apprentice jockeys, or "bug boys," use apprentice allowances. To become an apprentice jockey, riders must be sixteen years old, have at least one year of riding experience under a certified trainer and obtain a medical physical examination.

    Features

    • Under the apprentice allowance rule, an apprentice jockey's horse carries 10 lbs. less than the other horses. This allowance is valid until the apprentice jockey wins his fifth race. At this point, the allowance is lowered to 5 lbs. The allowance ends after one year or after the jockey's 40th race, whichever comes first.

    Significance

    • A weight allowance offers inexperienced riders a better chance against more experienced riders. After the allowance ends, the apprentice is said to "lose his bug." At this point, the jockey is called a journeyman.