Tommie Jakes: Remembering the Promising Jockey Gone Too Soon

Tommie Jakes, a 19-year-old apprentice jockey, captured hearts with his talent and dedication before his sudden passing. Discover his story, achievements, and how the racing world is paying tribute

1. Who was Tommie Jakes?
   Tommie Jakes was a licensed apprentice jockey in Britain, aged 19 at the time of his death. He rode for the stable of George Boughey and had established himself as a promising young rider in the flat-racing circuit.
2. When did Tommie Jakes die and what happened?
   Jakes tragically died at his family home near Newmarket in the early hours of Thursday, 30 October 2025. The death is not being treated as suspicious.
3. How old was Tommie Jakes?
   He was 19 years old at the time of his death.
4. What were Tommie Jakes’s career achievements?
   • He rode his first winner at the age of 16 on Suzi’s Connoisseur at Lingfield in March 2023.
   • Over his brief career he rode approximately 59 winners from 519–522 rides.
   • His most recent win was aboard Fouroneohfever at Catterick on 18 October 2025.
5. Which trainer did Tommie Jakes ride for?
   He was apprenticed with George Boughey’s stable and also rode for other trainers including Linda Perratt and Michael Attwater.
6. What kind of rider was Tommie Jakes viewed as?
   He was seen as a hard-working, popular young jockey with strong promise. Trainers praised his attitude, talent, and that “the world was at his feet.”
7. Where did Tommie Jakes ride most often?
   He had success particularly on the all-weather tracks (e.g., Newcastle) and flat racing circuits in Britain.
8. What is being done in his memory by the racing community?
   Racecourses such as Southwell and Chelmsford held a minute’s silence and jockeys wore black armbands as a mark of respect.
9. What does his sudden death mean for British racing?
   It has caused profound shock and mourning across the industry. The sport’s support services have offered help to those affected.
10. What did th
11. What were some of his standout moments?
    One highlight: In the 2024 season, he rode 29 winners. His debut win at age 16 also marked him as a rising star early on.
12. Was his death expected or preceded by signs of trouble?
    According to trainer comments and media reports, there were no apparent signs of health issues, substance abuse, or other concerns. The death remains a shock.
13. How are young jockeys supported in British racing?
    British racing bodies such as the BHA, IJF, and PJA provide support services, mentoring and welfare programmes for jockeys at all levels. In this case, they reiterated availability of help for anyone affected.
14. What legacy will Tommie Jakes leave behind?
    Although his career was very brief, his work ethic, kind character and rising results mean he is remembered as a talented young rider whose promise will remain part of the sport’s collective memory.
15. What can fans and followers of the sport take away from this?
    It’s a reminder of the risks and pressures in professional sport—even at a young age—and the importance of mental health, safety, support systems and acknowledging the human behind the athlete. The community’s response shows the value placed on welfare.

✅ Final Thoughts

Tommie Jakes’s story is both inspiring and heartbreaking. He represented youthful ambition, talent and the hope of a bright future in flat racing. His untimely passing reminds us all—fans, athletes, and industry insiders—of how fleeting life and opportunity can be.
If you follow horse racing, his journey invites reflection on:

• The path of young apprentices in a demanding sport.
• The importance of mentoring and welfare for athletes.
• Celebrating potential, even when cut short.