Jockey makes huge career decision after trading in horse racing to become Jet2 pilot

It's hardly surprising when sportspeople decide to pursue fresh challenges. Nevertheless, ex-jockey Josh Crane is poised to make a remarkable career switch as he transitions from racing thoroughbreds to flying aircraft forJet2.

The 34-year-old secured ten victories as an apprentice under trainer Chris Dwyer from 2009 to 2014. Prior to his professional transformation, he dedicated a decade working alongside leading trainer Charlie Appleby.

He's now ready to launch his fresh career as he says goodbye to thehorse racing yards, reports the Express. Crane has been getting ready for his new position during his free time over the past seven years. Those closest to him won't find this entirely shocking, however.

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During his teenage years, Crane was torn between enlisting in the RAF or pursuing a career as a jockey. He ultimately selected the latter option, yet flying remained constantly in his thoughts.

He's chosen to join British carrier Jet2, whose memorable 2015 advertisement featuring Jess Glynne's track 'Hold my Hand' has experienceda massive revival on TikTok this summer.

"I've had an incredible journey already with [horse racing team] Godolphin but to go from the saddle to the flight deck and now join Jet2, an airline with a fantastic reputation, is something I'm incredibly proud of," Crane said, via The Racing Post.

Regarding building his new career path, he added: "I'll always be grateful to my mum. She organised my first flying lesson for my 12th birthday, which sparked my desire to become a pilot, and she's supported me every step of the way since."

Crane disclosed that obtaining his pilot's licence proved to be a lengthy journey. He explained: "The greatest challenge was studying at home after riding out in the mornings, especially for the ATPL [Airline Transport Pilot Licence] exams, which is 13 subjects and equivalent to a degree squeezed into 15 months."

The former jockey publicly expressed gratitude to Godolphin for providing him the opportunity and flexibility to prepare for his aerial career, despite his riding commitments.

"I've been incredibly fortunate to have a career with Godolphin, a truly world-class operation with standards second to none," he said.

"I've had the privilege of riding top horses like [2021 Epsom Derby winner] Adayar, and I've always been proud to be part of the Charlie Appleby team. Charlie and everyone at Godolphin have been hugely supportive of my aviation journey, giving me the flexibility I needed to complete exams and flight tests while riding out in the mornings.

"I'll really miss the horses at Godolphin. I'll never forget the buzz of riding horses of that calibre up the gallops of [training yard] Moulton Paddocks."

His path to the cockpit has been quite an achievement. Crane has invested a staggering £85,000 to secure his position with Jet2, with backing from the Jockeys Education & Training Scheme, aptly abbreviated as Jets.

Crane expressed his gratitude, saying: "The support from Jets has been invaluable," and "Especially the funding of essential courses and training. Lisa Delany and Phil Kinsella, in particular, have been fantastic throughout, always there when I needed help, and even anticipating what I might need before I asked."

He continued: "From organising interview training with speaking coaches, putting me in touch with airline pilots to simulator sessions ahead of my airline assessment, I could see they were throwing everything at me in the latter stages to give me the best possible chance."

Speaking about his new employer's recent popularity due to a Chinese app, Crane added: "Jet2 was my first airline interview, and I'm very excited to start with them."

He concluded: "From the moment I began the process, I felt supported and welcomed, which speaks volumes about the culture there. As their advert says, nothing beats a Jet2 holiday!".