Giant jockey explains why he's turning professional despite 6ft'5 stature

Jack Andrews, the world's tallest jockey, has confirmed that he will be turning professional. The 27-year-old, who stands at 6ft 5in tall, recently secured his 200th point-to-point win, and he now has hopes of breaking through on the professional scene as well.

Andrews previously turned professional in 2021 before ultimately reverting back to the point-to-point scene. However, with more experience under his belt from working with the Tom Ellis yard, he now feels he has the foundations to bounce back in style.

Andrews will be able to claim 3lb as a conditional from this week, and he will take his first ride on Friday when he partners Just A Memory in the 16.53.

Speaking about the decision to take out his professional licence again, Andrews told the Racing Post: "It's massively exciting. I grew up wanting to be a professional and as good a jockey as I can be. With the yard growing as well, it's a great time.

"I get asked a lot but I'm 6ft 5in, and it gets me in the headlines more than I should. I am the height I am and I've got to make the best of it; sometimes I try to use it to my advantage as I can my wrap my legs around horses and get behind them that bit more."

Although there are perks to his towering height, Andrews went on to concede that he does run into some issues with his weight - though he has gradually managed to keep those problems under control over the years.

He added: "I keep my weight in a position where I can ride under rules and pointing, so that won't change. I'm usually between 10st 3lb or 10st 4lb. It's a struggle but I'm managing it well and have been for the last five years. I won't be able to ride forever so I'll give it as good a go as I can."

Andrews went on to speak about how he is hopeful that his 3lb claim could see him viewed as a 'valuable' claimer given his wealth of experience which should put him in a good position to get booked for some rides elsewhere, as well as leaning on his links in the Ellis yard.