A-level exam in the morning, Royal Ascot ride in the afternoon? ‘No problem!’ says teenage superstar Jack Callan

The jockey shares his goal for 2026 – he’s one we’re keeping an eye on!

Jennifer Donald's avatar
By
Published In Features
Jockey Jack Callan rides Unassuming to win The Tide Apprentice Handicap Stakes (Class 4) at the Racing To Zero Summer Mile Property Raceday at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire for trainer George Boughey.
Jockey Jack Callan rides Unassuming to win The Tide Apprentice Handicap Stakes (Class 4) at the Racing To Zero Summer Mile Property Raceday at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire for trainer George Boughey.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Teenage apprentice Flat jockey Jack Callan is the son of global horseracing sensation and multiple Group One-winning jockey Neil Callan, but he’s carving out his own exciting career in the saddle. Jack is already in high demand from some of the country’s leading Flat trainers including George Boughey and Charlie Johnston and the 18-year-old is catching the eye with some masterful winning rides.

Jack finished fourth in the apprentice jockeys’ championship last season and, during a landmark summer, he made his debut at Royal Ascot just hours after sitting an A-level exam at school in the morning. He is now spending the winter months riding in Australia and Hong Kong, where he grew up, before returning to England in the spring for the start of the new Flat racing season.

Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Showjumping and racing editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.