Suraj Narredu is an Indian jockey with over 2,000 career wins. He began racing at just 16 and quickly made his mark by winning major titles like the Indian Derby and the Invitation Cup. Son of veteran trainer Satish Narredu, Suraj has also represented India in international tournaments and is widely regarded as one of the finest jockeys the country has produced.
In this episode, Vinamre sits down with Suraj to talk about: -How he got into racing, the tough training process, and what it takes to stay fit for the sport. -What jockeys really earn in India, how much it costs to maintain horses, and the daily routines behind the scenes. -What it’s like to travel as a jockey, how racing differs around the world, and the lifestyle that comes with it. -The mindset during a race, strange superstitions, and whether horses truly connect with their riders. -Why steroids are a concern, how wild horses behave, and the biggest lessons he’s learned from the sport.
Real stories from the track—no filters, just the truth about horse racing.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction 01:22 – When did he start racing? 03:47 – Apprenticeship of a horse jockey 06:53 – Requirements for a jockey 09:22 – Losing weight in one day 13:02 – Dos and don'ts of the race 14:10 – Earnings of a jockey in India 18:02 – Cost of maintaining a stable in India 19:12 – Great diet of a horse 21:25 – Future of racing in India 24:22 – Travelling schedule of a jockey 32:18 – Best racing horses in the world 33:18 – Breeding of horses 37:06 – Can wild horses race? 38:17 – Is the man-animal connection real? 43:36 – Purpose of blinders 47:00 – Racing without saddles 50:44 – Pre-ritual for the Indian Derby 57:25 – Training for the race 1:00:06 – Lowest point of his career 1:03:29 – Do horses take steroids? 1:07:56 – Race enthusiasts 1:10:12 – Accidents on the racecourse 1:15:30 – Lessons from the sport 1:18:26 – Biggest policy change by the government 1:21:53 – Betting styles and superstitions in racing 1:27:14 – Mindset of constantly winning 1:31:46 – Conclusion 1:34:00 – Vlog
Vinamre Kasanaa is a writer at heart, podcaster and entrepreneur by craft. He spends a significant part of his time reading and researching. With over 500 podcasts under his belt, he’s interviewed everyone—from HNIs and industry leaders to everyday superheroes.
