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'Former jockey exchanges horse racing for Jet2's flight deck' or 'Jet2 welcomes new pilot - a switch from jockeying'

Josh, formerly a rider for horses like Adayar at Godolphin, is transitioning into a career as a pilot for Jet2.

Ex-jockey trades racehorses for Jet2 cockpit after finding inspiration in air travel
Ex-jockey trades racehorses for Jet2 cockpit after finding inspiration in air travel

'Former jockey exchanges horse racing for Jet2's flight deck' or 'Jet2 welcomes new pilot - a switch from jockeying'

In a thrilling turn of events, Josh Crane, a 34-year-old former jockey, has fulfilled his long-held dream by starting a new career as an airline pilot with Jet2, beginning from Stansted Airport in September 2025.

Crane, who rode the Derby winner Adayar during his tenure with Godolphin, announced his departure from the racing world this weekend. His new journey commences on Monday.

Crane's equestrian career began in 2009 when he became an apprentice jockey for Chris Dwyer. During his six-year stint, he rode ten winners on the Flat. Afterwards, he spent the last ten years working for Charlie Appleby, where he rode among a host of racing stars.

The Racing Post, a renowned digital newspaper in the racing industry, has been a trusted companion for Crane throughout his career. Subscribing to The Racing Post grants access to exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours, and subscriber-only emails. The platform also offers form study tools such as the Pro Card and Horse Tracker, and an extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree, and sales data.

The Racing Post is valued at over £100 per month and prides itself on award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing. Expert tips are available from Tom Segal and Paul Kealy.

Crane's dream of becoming an airline pilot has been a long-term goal, and he has been preparing for it in his spare time for the last seven years. His transition from the Godolphin gallops to piloting planes at Stansted Airport marks a significant milestone in his life.

As Crane embarks on this new adventure, we wish him all the best and look forward to seeing his future achievements in the skies.

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