Toronto, ON – Racing into hearts and homes, JOCKEYS opens the gate to the enigmatic world of horseracing, complete with high stakes and high drama, both on and off the track. Premiering on Animal Planet Saturday, Feb. 7 at 9 p.m. ET/10 p.m. PT, the gripping 12-part docu-drama chronicles the lives and careers of seven, 112-pound jockeys and their 1,200-pound horses as they risk life and limb in the ultimate quest for glory. 

Risking bone fractures, trampling, paralysis and even death, the lives of these jockeys and their mounts are on the line in every race. With ambulance engines ready for action and the stands filled with revelers waiting to see who takes the lead, JOCKEYS reveals the paramount pressure for success and survival in one of the most prestigious sports in the world. 

The drama for these jockeys doesn’t end when the race is finished. Audiences get to know the lives of these seven jockeys, their personalities, relationships, strengths and flaws. With big dreams and even bigger egos, these jockeys are determined to cross the finish line first — every time.

In a world dominated by fierce competitors, strong bonds and extraordinary risk, JOCKEYS presents this beautiful, storied, thrilling world as it’s never been seen before.

Meet the JOCKEYS:

• THE BREAKOUT FEMALE STAR – Canadian jockey star Chantal Sutherland is a woman who’s dominating the tracks. And, because she’s dating fellow jockey Mike Smith, it puts her in competition with the man she loves. Can they make this work?

• THE ICON – Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith is a living legend and a fan favorite. His fierce riding style and stringent pre-race ritual has earned him a shaman-like reputation among fellow jockeys.

• THE HOTSHOT – Joe Talamo may be young, but this 18 year-old jockey has already taken the racing world by storm earning nearly $4 million in purse money in one racing season. 

• THE WORKING MAN – Aaron Gryder is credited with more than 3,000 career wins and is motivated by supporting his family.  

• THE ELDER STATESMAN – After racing more than 30 years, Jon Court is the consummate veteran, and he has no plans to quit. 

• THE NEW GIRL – Fresh-faced Kayla Stra is racing gold in her native land of Australia, but only time will tell if she has what it takes to be a success in the US. 

• THE COMEBACK KID – Alex Solis bounced back after a broken back injury nearly took his life. He’s been to the winner’s circle 4,000 times, but he’s yet to be inducted into the Jockey Hall of Fame.

 

 

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