The silks and colours are the name given to the delicate and spectacular garments that identify the jockeys in horse racing competitions. History takes us back centuries to their origin in comparing the uniforms worn by soldiers to distinguish themselves on the battlefield so that it would be known which side they were on.
This was transferred to equestrian events, and today the use of silk and colours in horse competitions is used to recognise an owner on the track. This custom was already common in the 18th century and has remained significant in the sport up to the present day.
The custom originated in England and has been adopted in other nations around the world, but, in the UK, they are widely recognised in horse racing for their vibrant colourful style and for being a hallmark akin to heraldry, with each owner having their own unique insignia.
Why are racing colours important?
In horse racing, the colours of the jockeys’ silks are of cardinal importance. From the grandstands, the public can see in the distance to whom a horse belongs. Therefore, their main role is that of identification.
People focus on the colours of the cloth and the jockey’s attire as the key elements, especially if the public does not know the names of the horses and the riders. However, this is not the only reason why clothing is given prominence.
Cultural and historical factor
Tradition is also a significant element in the colours and silks of horses in the UK. These have been used for centuries in horse racing. Originally, the colours were only used to highlight the difference between the runners, to avoid confusion during the course of the race.
However, over time, the practical essence of this has become customary, and they now display emblems of families and heritage similar in importance to heraldry. Each pattern has a specific meaning, evidencing the relevance and family background of each horse owner.
Colour psychology
If we ignore the historical, traditional and heraldic meaning of horsemen’s colours and silks and delve into the theory of colour and its importance to the human psyche, it has been shown that some shades worn are more beneficial than others. Brighter colours such as orange, yellow and red are considered to provide riders with energy and motivation. While blues or greens in various shades are perceived as more serene and relaxing.
There are, however, scientific discussions about this, as there are not enough studies to support this theory. Many experts discuss the impacts of colours depending on each person and their own perception of the world, their memories associated with colours and individual preference towards them. In any case, it remains a tradition in horse racing and is still an attractive subject to study.
Marketing and economics
The colours of each horse and jockey are not only part of the tradition and influence the public psychologically. They are also shown as a commercial aspect that defines a brand not only in horse competitions but also in the sale of horses. Successful stables that have a long history of success and strength as a business will have more opportunities for sales and betting by distinguishing themselves from others.
The fervent fan base that bets on a horse may be inclined to back the riders they appreciate and the owners or companies of which they are members. A greater business opportunity in horse racing can produce more revenue, and this is not only a benefit to the sport and its supporters.
It is an activity that drives the local and national economy by providing direct and indirect employment, generating taxes and providing entertainment and passion among the fans. This is a function of the fact that the sport can be boosted with extra income.
Legal aspect
In addition to the three aspects mentioned above, the silks and colours of the horses respond to a legal aspect and the British Horseracing Authority has a regulation that governs this matter, which we will talk about later on.
How are jockey silks and colours chosen?
Jockey silks and colours are registered trademarks. No two are alike in design and colour. If the same owner has several horses running in the same race, he must vary one cap with a different colour.
For first-time owners, the choice of colours is one of the most exciting aspects of the horse-owning experience. Once you have decided on a design and shades, you are obliged to register it. This is a legal step, and after that they cannot be used by anyone else.
However, there are three main groups of colours that can be used: standard, custom and vintage, which we will explain in the legal aspects in the next point.
Regulations for silks and colours in horse racing
The regulatory framework governing silks and colours in horse racing is controlled by the British Horseracing Authority. These rules are of the utmost importance for the recognition of jockeys in equestrian events.
However, the British Horseracing Authority has three main groups of colours which can be chosen online for convenience:
- Standard colours: there are 18 different ones to select from. These can be used on any sleeve, body and cap design.
- Bespoke colours: it is possible to choose a particular colour and from there combine it with another colour or use a related colour palette. For example, dark blue, navy, electric or sky. However, these pay a fee + VAT for registration.
- Vintage colours: these are colours that have been registered but are no longer in use because after 5 years of legal registration they have not been renewed. Therefore, the BHA allows them for new owners.
On the other hand, there are designs on the jacket and sleeves that include uniform colours, lines. X’s, stars, squares, circles and diamonds that are characteristic of each horse owner.
There is also a registration process to be completed:
- Registration of silks and colours: according to the owner’s taste and those available according to the three-colour groups mentioned above.
- Design standards: This is where the three aforementioned colour groups come into play, which can be purchased ready-made on the internet. This offers an advantage of comfort and proper use of technology in the service of traditions and the law.
- Use during races: jockeys’ uniforms are divided into two main types: racing uniforms and riding uniforms. The former are for competitions and have to meet the standards of silks and colours and also the elegance for these events. In these cases, technical fabrics or materials are used for this purpose. The latter are for everyday use and provide comfort. They can be made of wool or cotton depending on the time and climate of the year.
- Updating and renewal: BHA permits last for 5 years. Before they expire, they must be renewed and a legal extension of the registration must be applied for. In this case, it is possible to add design details and innovations to the approved uniform.
- International variants: these are for competitions outside the UK, where the silks and colours of horse riders must meet agreed standards. Fortunately, those set by the BHA are consistent with the rest of the world. In fact, many of the laws in force in other nations are inspired by the British tradition born around 1700.
The most iconic silks and colours of UK horseracing
When talking about a tradition that dates back to the 18th century, there are many horse silks that have become true symbols of the United Kingdom and these are the most important ones:
1. Royal Colours
These are the purple, red and gold colours established by Queen Elizabeth II’s father, George VI in the 1950s, albeit following in the footsteps of previous generations of the Royal Family. In 1952, he consolidated the breeding and competition stock and since the late 1960s, he has been competing with his own horses. Today, the Royal House has more than 100 horses and has achieved more than 1,600 victories. These include two awards won by the Queen herself in 1954 and 1957 as British Flat Racing Champion in 1954 and 1957. The Queen and her trainers trained horses every year, attended Royal Ascot, and was a regular reader of the Racing Post.
2. Trevor Hemmings
This is the yellow, emerald green and white checkered pattern of this British businessman considered the most famous, as he was the owner of Preston North End and more than 100 competition horses. His iconic equines ridden by green, white and yellow silk jockeys with quarter horses have been used three times to win the Grand National, and at least one rider has taken part in the annual competition since the turn of the century. Although Trevor is sadly no longer with us, his silks are still used under the ownership of ‘Exors Of The Late Trevor Hemmings’.
3. Gigginstown House Stud
It is the burgundy or vinotint with stripes and a white star of this company, founded in 2000 by owner Michael O’Leary, most famously the CEO of the airline Ryanair. It was founded as a horse breeding service and, after making significant investments in the business, has achieved enormous success, particularly in Ireland. During the 2006-2007 season, it competed 32 different riders in Ireland with its silks. During the 2018-19 season, the number rose to 226, with its top winner, the well-known horse Tiger Roll who won £1,380,085 in prize money alone.
To experience first-hand the thrill of owning a racehorse, consider joining a syndicate. You can even purchase shares in a racing horse through the Racing Club, which will give you the thrill and pride of watching your horse compete under their unique silks.
