Jean-Loïc-Claude Dersoir: The Veteran Jockey for Whom Riding Must Remain a Pleasure
PARIS, 25 January 2026 – In the demanding world of French trotting, where jockeys often retire in their forties, Jean-Loïc-Claude Dersoir is a remarkable exception. At 53 years old, the six-time winner of the prestigious Étrier d’Or is not only still competing at the highest level but continues to win major races. Following his victory in the Prix de l’Île-de-France in February 2025, Dersoir reflects on a career spanning four decades, a unique physical constitution, and a simple, enduring philosophy: “Monter en course doit rester un plaisir” – riding in a race must remain a pleasure.
A Career Forged in the Rib
Born in Écouché, Orne, in November 1972, Dersoir was initiated into the world of trotters by his father, Roland, also a trainer. At 15, he entered the École des courses hippiques de Graignes, becoming a pupil of the renowned trainer Joël Hallais—a partnership that would define his life and career. He won his first race in 1990 and was named best apprentice in 1991. His breakthrough came at just 20, causing an upset by winning the Prix de Cornulier on Tout Bon at odds of 50/1. This heralded the start of an era of dominance; he won his first Étrier d’Or in 1994 and would go on to claim the award six times consecutively until 2001.
His personal and professional life became permanently intertwined with the Hallais stable. He married Carine, Joël Hallais’s daughter, and together they founded the Jeloca training centre in Champcerie. Over the years, Dersoir has proven himself a master of both mounted trot (“monté”) and harness trot (“attelé”), amassing over 1,000 victories in the mounted discipline alone.
Key Facts & Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Profession | Jockey, Driver, Trainer (French Trotting) |
| Born | November 1972, Écouché, Orne, France |
| Major Honour | Étrier d’Or (1994, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001) |
| Recent Major Win | Prix de l’Île-de-France (2025) on Ina du Rib |
| Notable Mounted Wins | Prix de Cornulier (x4), Prix de Vincennes (x3), Prix du Président de la République (x3) |
| Racing Weight | Form weight of 58 kg; rode the 2025 Cornulier at 65 kg with saddle and pads. |
The Mindset of a Veteran
In a February 2025 interview, Dersoir displayed the attitude that has sustained his longevity. Discussing his preparation for major races like the Prix de Cornulier, he revealed a straightforward regimen: “I went running every day the week of the race. That’s it.” He credits a fortunate metabolism for his ability to maintain weight without deprivation, a rarity in a weight-sensitive sport. “I eat everything I want… I’m rather a big eater. I’m very lucky in that regard,” he admitted.
His approach to riding has also evolved. He now rides less frequently, selectively choosing mounts and increasingly passing opportunities to the younger riders in his stable to aid their development. “I never had an agent, and it’s too late to get one now,” he said, emphasising his preference for a hands-on, familial management style centred on the horses of Joël Hallais and his own Jeloca stable.
Passing the Torch
Dersoir is acutely aware of his role as a bridge between generations. He has seen contemporaries like Yoann Lebourgeois and David Thomain retire younger, often due to the physical and dietary strains of the job. Meanwhile, he is actively training the next generation, including his two daughters, Clara and Léa, who are entering the profession. “Our role is also to train the generations of jockeys to come,” he stated, acknowledging the particular challenges women face in the field.
His long-time mentor, Joël Hallais, summarised Dersoir’s unique qualities: “Jean-Loïc has an extraordinary physique… He has always had a light ride. He is a jockey who doesn’t hurt the horses. He knows how to make his partners last.” Hallais also praised his unparalleled composure: “He is certainly one of the coldest jockeys I have known.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Jean-Loïc-Claude Dersoir?
He was born in November 1972, making him 53 years old as of January 2026.
What is his most famous victory?
His first major upset was winning the Prix de Cornulier in 1993 at age 20 on Tout Bon. More recently, he won the Prix de l’Île-de-France in February 2025 on Ina du Rib.
Why is he still riding in his fifties?
Dersoir cites three main reasons: his exceptional physical condition and lack of weight issues, the continued opportunity to ride top-quality horses like Ina du Rib, and, most importantly, because he still derives pure pleasure from racing.
Does he plan to retire soon?
He has no immediate plans to retire. “I will stop riding the day I no longer have comfort on a horse,” he has said, indicating his continuation is based on physical feel rather than age.