- Salary statistics
- Travkusk
Travkusk
44 100 - 44 900 kr / month
Pedagogiskt arbete
Salary progression Travkusk
What does a harness racing driver do? – Tasks and working environment
A harness racing driver is responsible for driving harness racing horses in competitions and training, often on behalf of horse owners or trainers. Tasks include both the actual racing and preparations such as training the horses, evaluating their form, and collaborating with trainers to optimize performance. The work environment involves outdoor work in varying weather conditions, often during early mornings and late evenings. The profession requires presence at racetracks across the country and also involves travel to different locations for competitions. Safety, animal handling, and good physical condition are central parts of the daily work.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the profession of harness racing driver has seen a clear increase in salary. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average increased to 41 300 SEK, representing an increase of about 29%. The positive trend continued in 2024 with an average salary of 44 900 SEK, which is an additional increase of approximately 9% compared to the previous year. The significant salary growth can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified drivers and a greater focus on professionalism within harness racing. Higher prize money in competitions and improved conditions for professional athletes have also contributed to the development.
Harness racing driver salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 44 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
- Hourly wage: 270 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: No specific salary statistics for men or women
- Regional differences: Data unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a harness racing driver, a combination of practical experience, basic education in horse knowledge, and specific licenses are usually required. Many start their careers early by being active in pony harness racing or working as groomers. Formal training is available through harness racing schools and vocational programs focused on equine sports. It is also important to complete license training and internships to be able to race in official harness races.
- Formal education: Harness racing school or vocational training, 1–3 years
- License training: Mandatory to compete as a driver
- Internship: Time as a groom or training assistant
- Prerequisites: Good horse experience and physical strength
- Tips for starting out: Begin with pony harness racing to build experience
Many harness racing drivers develop a close relationship with their horses, where the ability to read the animal's daily condition and mood can be crucial for success on the track. The personal bond between driver and horse is often highlighted as one of the profession's greatest motivators and challenges.
Common benefits and compensations
Harness racing drivers often have access to benefits such as race bonuses, prize money, sponsorship contracts, and travel allowances related to competitions. For some employment types, work clothing, wellness contributions, and access to training facilities may also be included. Many harness racing drivers are self-employed and are responsible for their own pension contributions and insurance.
Competition and challenges
The profession of harness racing driver is characterized by intense competition, as the number of licensed drivers exceeds the number of well-paid assignments. The most successful drivers often get to drive the best horses and compete in major races, making entry at the top level challenging. The risk of injury is significant for both driver and horse, and the physical demands are high. Additionally, continuous updating of skills and networking are required to establish oneself and access attractive race opportunities. Seasonal variations and weather conditions can also affect work opportunities.
Tips for aspiring harness racing drivers
To succeed as a harness racing driver, it is good to be persistent and have a genuine interest in horses and sports. Building a strong foundation of practical experience by working as a groom or participating in pony harness racing provides valuable insights and contacts. Good physical condition makes it easier to handle the stresses involved in the profession, while stress resistance and quick decision-making are crucial during races. Social skills and the ability to collaborate with trainers, owners, and colleagues facilitate obtaining new assignments. Humility in both successes and setbacks helps build long-term relationships and trust within the industry.
Key facts about harness racing drivers
- Occupational group: Professional athletes
- Average salary: 44 900 SEK/month
- Hourly wage: 270 SEK
- Work environment: Outdoors at racetracks, often irregular hours
- Future prospects: Approximately 434 available jobs within the occupational group
Career paths and future outlook
After a few years in the profession, a harness racing driver can advance to more prestigious assignments, such as being the first choice for larger stables or participating in national and international major races. Some go on to become harness racing trainers, sports managers, or officials within harness racing. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for professional athletes in harness racing remains stable, and with 434 available jobs, there are good opportunities for those with the right qualifications and network. However, competition for the most attractive positions remains tough, requiring results and a professional reputation.
Frequently asked questions about harness racing drivers
- What does a harness racing driver earn?
- A harness racing driver has an average salary of 44 900 SEK per month and an hourly wage of approximately 270 SEK. - What education is required to become a harness racing driver?
- Typically, training via a harness racing school, license training, and practical experience with horses and competitions are necessary. - What is the work environment like for harness racing drivers?
- The work environment is mainly outdoors at racetracks and can involve working in varying weather and times. - Are there many job opportunities for harness racing drivers?
- Within the professional sports group, there were recently 434 available jobs related to harness racing. - What personal qualities are important for a harness racing driver?
- Endurance, good physical condition, stress resistance, and teamwork skills are key qualities. - Are there gender differences in salary for harness racing drivers?
- There is no specific statistics on salary differences between men and women in the profession. - What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
- Intense competition, injury risk, and the need for a strong network are some of the main challenges.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Travkusk has the SSYK code 3421, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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