Crowley calls time on riding career at Goodwood and sets sights on training
Jim Crowley has announced his retirement from race-riding after being unable to regain the required fitness following a fall at York last September. The decision brings an end to a high-profile Flat riding career that included Classic-level successes at Ascot and a spell as British champion jockey.
From National Hunt beginnings to the top of the Flat
Crowley started out over jumps before switching to the Flat, where he established himself among the leading riders of his generation. His first Group success came in 2006 in the Jockey Club Cup and he later recorded a breakthrough at Royal Ascot when riding a Group winner in the sprint division. The pinnacle of his riding years included claiming the jockeys’ championship in 2016 and being appointed retained rider to Shadwell.
Throughout his career Crowley partnered a number of outstanding performers. He was associated with sprinter Battaash and the exceptional miler Baaeed, the latter producing standout victories at Ascot in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes and later in the Juddmonte International over ten furlongs. Other notable horses in his saddle record include Mohaather, Anmaat, Hukum, Ulysses and Minzaal.
Injury prompts change of direction
The fall at York resulted in multiple operations to his pelvis and legs. After extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation Crowley has concluded that his body will not allow him to continue at the level he expects of a professional race-rider, prompting the decision to retire from the saddle.
He chose Goodwood to make the announcement, citing the course as a special venue where he has enjoyed many memorable days. The move marks the close of one chapter with the intention of opening another in racing.
Plans to move into training
Crowley has already begun preparations to become a trainer, having completed the requisite industry modules. He intends to apply for a training licence, gain practical experience with established yards and travel as part of his development before establishing his own operation, aiming to be ready for the winter ahead of the next season.
He described training as a long-held aspiration and said the transition will provide a new focus following his riding career. Crowley has indicated he hopes to channel the knowledge and contacts accumulated over years at the highest level of the sport into his new role.
Ascot highlights and career milestones
- Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot featured among his most prized victories aboard Baaeed.
- Baaeed’s success in the Juddmonte International, when stepped up to ten furlongs, stands out in Crowley’s record.
- He was champion jockey in 2016 and rode multiple Group and Pattern winners across Britain and abroad, including in Dubai during winters with Shadwell.
Crowley’s association with the Maktoum family and Shadwell provided many opportunities at the highest level and delivered some of his sport’s most celebrated moments, including track records and headline wins at major meetings.
Looking ahead
The racing community will see Crowley transition from a leading jockey to a trainer, a pathway taken by a number of former riders. His immediate priorities are to secure a licence, learn from established trainers and build a base from which to launch a training career. Given his experience with top stables and exposure to elite horses and race planning, expectations will centre on how he applies those insights to a yard of his own.
For racegoers and followers of the Ascot circuit, Crowley’s legacy will be remembered in part for the performances he produced on the track at major meetings, while his next chapter will be watched with interest as he prepares to trade the saddle for the training box.
