The English National Hunt horse racing season could be overshadowed because of a shortage of jockeys.
The sport's governing body, the Jockey Club, has issued a plea for keen riders to apply for a licence to ride.
The number of national hunt jockeys has fallen from 123 in 1995 to 70, but the number of meetings has increased.
Racing officials believe the shortage has come about because Britons are getting bigger and there are fewer people who meet the sport's height and weight requirements.
National hunt racing is open to professional and amateur jockeys who weigh under 10 stone and who are around 5ft 8in.
The Guardiansays once the Jockey Club has approved the licence the riders are free to take part in any national hunt race.
While meetings are unlikely to be abandoned, some races might only involve two or three horses.
Racing officials fear jockeys might not be able to get to all of the meetings in time, particularly on Boxing Day, when there will be nine, and on New Year's Day, when there will be six.
A spokesman for the Jockey Club said: "There's fewer jockeys who are getting a greater number of rides but at least that means they are able to earn a good living. We are keeping an eye on the situation. Any sport thrives on new blood and young talent coming through."
He added: "It is not a case of horse racing being less fashionable but being a jockey is a very demanding lifestyle, particularly in terms of trying to keep your weight down. People are now heavier and bigger and are maybe some just find it too hard to be a jockey."