Who is Tommie Jakes? What to know about rising jockey who died at 19
Tommie Jakes after recording his 15th winner of 2025 at Epsom. Image Credit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos
The British racing community is reeling after the tragic death of apprentice jockey Tommie Jakes, who has died at just 19 years old. The talented young rider, widely regarded as one of the most promising apprentices in the sport, passed away at his family home near Newmarket early Thursday morning.
Jakes’ passing was confirmed in a joint statement by the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) and the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA), which described him as “a much-loved son, brother, and popular member of George Boughey’s racing team.”
A Bright Career Cut Short
Born in 2006, Tommie Jakes began making headlines as a teenager, achieving his first win at just 16 years old on Suzi’s Connoisseur at Lingfield in 2023. Since then, he built a reputation as a determined and skilled rider who showed remarkable maturity for his age.
Over a brief but impactful career, Jakes recorded 59 winners from 519 rides, developing a reputation for consistency and technical precision. He had particularly strong success at Newcastle, notching up 16 victories from just over a hundred rides, an impressive record for a young jockey.
In his debut season, Jakes won 11 races, followed by 29 in 2024 and another 19 this year before his untimely death.
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Trainers and Peers Pay Tribute
Tributes have poured in from across the racing world. Linda Perratt, who gave Jakes more rides than any other trainer, described him as “like a son.” She said, “It’s dreadful news. He rode lots of winners for us and always had a great attitude. We watched him riding just yesterday, there are no words.”
Brian Meehan, who worked closely with Jakes this year, remembered him fondly: “He was a lovely lad and a talented rider. He gave Gascony an outstanding ride to win at Epsom. It’s a shock to everybody that knew him.”
Former mentor Jane Chapple-Hyam, who first apprenticed him and gave him his maiden win, said: “It’s very sad news and our thoughts are with his family.”
A Promising Future in Racing
Jakes had recently been apprenticed to leading trainer George Boughey, a key figure in his professional development. He rode his last winner, Fouroneohfever, for Boughey at Catterick on October 18.
Those who knew him described Jakes as dedicated, humble, and endlessly enthusiastic. He was admired for his work ethic and for the respect he showed toward his horses and colleagues alike.
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) acting CEO Brant Dunshea said: “Tommie was a talented young rider with the world at his feet. His family, friends, and colleagues will be grieving today, and the racing community stands with them.”
The Racing Community in Mourning
Marks of respect were observed at Chelmsford and Southwell on Thursday evening, with further tributes expected at race meetings across the UK.
Racing Welfare and the Samaritans have encouraged anyone affected by the news to seek support through their helplines.
Jakes’ family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Remembering Tommie Jakes
In only three years as a professional, Tommie Jakes left a remarkable impact on British racing. His story was one of discipline, passion, and quiet excellence. Trainers, peers, and fans will remember him not only for his talent but for his warmth and kindness beyond the track.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who watched him rise, and in the promise he represented for the next generation of British jockeys.
FAQ
Q: Who was Tommie Jakes?
A: Tommie Jakes was a 19-year-old apprentice jockey from Newmarket who quickly rose to prominence in British horse racing, earning 59 career wins from 519 rides.
Q: How did Tommie Jakes die?
A: He tragically died at his family home near Newmarket in the early hours of Thursday, October 30, 2025. No official cause has been released.
Q: When did Tommie Jakes start his professional career?
A: He began his career as a teenager, recording his first win at age 16 aboard Suzi’s Connoisseur at Lingfield in 2023.
Q: Which trainers did Tommie Jakes ride for?
A: Throughout his career, he rode for trainers including Linda Perratt, George Boughey, Jane Chapple-Hyam, Michael Attwater, and Brian Meehan.
Q: How many winners did Tommie Jakes have in his career?
A: He achieved 59 wins from 519 rides over three seasons, an impressive record for such a young rider.
Q: What has the racing community said about his death?
A: Trainers and officials described him as a talented, humble, and hard-working rider with a bright future. The BHA called his death “a devastating loss.”
Q: Are tributes being paid at racecourses?
A: Yes, marks of respect have taken place at Chelmsford and Southwell, with further tributes planned in upcoming meetings.
Q: Where can people affected by the news get help?
A: Support is available through Racing Welfare (0800 6300 443) and Samaritans (116 123).