Just over six months ago, Trevor McCarthy dismounted at Colonial Downs – and hasn’t ridden in a race since then.

McCarthy, a Delaware native and son of longtime Delaware Park top rider Michael McCarthy, had ridden more than 11,000 mounts. He had been a leading Mid-Atlantic rider, particularly at Delaware Park and in Maryland, before shifting tack to New York. He had won a Grade 1 race and a couple of dozen other graded events. His mounts had earned more than $76 million in purses.

But something wasn’t quite right.

McCarthy had seven winless mounts on August 15 at Colonial, the last coming aboard Rendezvous in a maiden claimer. Soon after, the 30-year-old McCarthy decided to take an extended break from riding to better focus on his mental health, which had been on the backburner and suffered for years.

First up was a long-awaited surgery. Due to a tibia break long ago, one leg was shorter than the other and causing issues, so an October procedure brought things even again. 

“My physical health was definitely improving and only going to get better,” McCarthy said. “Then, I took the time to really focus on my mental health.”

Following the surgery, he’s put in plenty of time with his therapist, and has implemented a daily workout routine based on practices from physical therapy, including weightlifting, cycling, and cold water immersion.

“That really builds a strong mind,” he says of that last technique. “It teaches you to breathe and relax in tough situations.”

The time away from the saddle has also given McCarthy time to focus on his family. He has a young daughter, Riley, with his wife, fellow jockey Katie Davis, and he’s enjoyed soaking in every moment with them.

“I wasn’t present for a lot of it while I was riding,” he says. “I was always distracted from all those great little things that were around me.”

So, what’s next?

McCarthy has jumped with enthusiasm into the real estate business. He started small, with a couple of rental properties near where he and his wife were riding. That sparked his interest, so he began networking and taking courses in property management and ownership.

Now, with this new start, he’s looking to expand his business, like one recent deal on a property just north of Saratoga, which holds plenty of promise.

“Financial freedom is what I always have wanted,” he remarks. A robust real estate portfolio would give him that.

Beyond that new career, though, he continues to advocate for his fellow jockeys’ mental health – all the way up to Capitol Hill in D.C.

McCarthy has worked with government representatives and with the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), pointing toward the positive steps other sports have taken regarding athletes’ mental health. He hopes advocating for riders will have a ripple effect across the industry.

“I think this is going to be a big stepping stone to where eventually we will have those resources for everybody,” McCarthy says.

McCarthy also has some words for any riders currently struggling with their mental health and well-being.

First, he advises, “Try to really figure out what you want to do, whether staying in the industry or not – just give it 100 percent.”

He also urges young riders to get the proper training, learn from the pros, and don’t be afraid to ask questions – even if or when they decide to pursue things other than riding.

“Whatever it is you want to do, try and get involved with the best people that you can, so that you can become the best version of yourself.”

Between real estate and mental health advocacy, McCarthy has plenty to keep him busy. That said, he hasn’t ruled out getting involved with Thoroughbreds again – as an owner in a partnership, perhaps, or a pinhooker. 

He’s from a racing family, after all – one could say it’s in his blood.

“I still love racing and horses,” he says. “I don’t think I’m ever going to lose that.”