Jack Carava’s journey from successful trainer to jockey agent is a testament to his passion for the horseracing industry. After almost 40 years as a trainer in southern California, Carava decided to make a career change in 2020. Feeling disenchanted with his job and the changing landscape of the industry, he took a leap of faith and transitioned into a new role as a jockey agent.
A jockey agent plays a crucial role in the world of horseracing. They are responsible for strategizing, counseling, and managing the careers of jockeys. From deciding which horses a jockey will ride to handling media requests and acting as a therapist when things go wrong, a jockey agent wears many hats. For Carava, the decision to become a jockey agent was a way to stay connected to the industry he loved while exploring a new avenue within it.
Carava’s journey into the world of horseracing began at a young age, as his father was an accomplished trainer. Growing up around the track, Carava developed a deep love and understanding of the sport. Initially considering a career as a veterinarian, he eventually found his calling in training and claimed his first horse in 1996. Over the years, Carava became known for his success with claiming horses and his ability to spot talent in the claiming ranks.
One of Carava’s most memorable moments as a trainer was claiming a horse named First Intent, who went on to win the Bing Crosby and a sprint stake at Santa Anita. His success with claiming horses led to a partnership with client Ron Valenta, where they claimed higher-priced horses and won multiple stakes races together. Despite the highs and lows of the industry, Carava’s dedication to hard work and treating people right has always been his guiding principle.
Transitioning from a successful trainer to a jockey agent was not without its challenges, but Carava’s determination and work ethic have paid off. Working with jockeys Kyle Frey and Geovanni Franco, Carava has found success at Del Mar and beyond. While he misses certain aspects of training, such as being hands-on with the horses and the camaraderie of the barn, Carava is content with his new role and the opportunities it has brought.
As he navigates the ups and downs of the horseracing industry, Carava remains focused on building and maintaining relationships with trainers and jockeys. His approach to the job is rooted in honesty, hard work, and respect for those he works with. With his riders by his side, Carava looks forward to the future and the challenges and successes that lie ahead in the world of horseracing.
