Influential women in Horse Racing history

Throughout the annals of horse racing, women have played pivotal roles in the sport's development and progress. Despite the sport being predominantly male-dominated, women have persistently broken barriers as jockeys, trainers, owners, breeders, and farm managers.

Laska Durnell 

Laska Durnell made history in 1904 by becoming the first woman to own a Kentucky Derby starter and winner, Elwood. This horse was the first Derby runner owned and bred by women, with Mrs. J.B. Prather being the breeder. Durnell's achievement was groundbreaking, setting a precedent for female ownership in horse racing. Elwood’s victory in the Derby was not just a personal triumph for Durnell but also a landmark moment for women in the sport, showcasing their capability and potential in a highly competitive field.

Kathy Kusner

Kathy became a trailblazer in 1968 when she became the first licensed female jockey after successfully suing the Maryland Racing Commission for gender discrimination. Kusner's career included riding on the East Coast, in Canada, and internationally in countries such as Mexico, Germany, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Panama, and South Africa. In 1972, she earned a silver medal at the Munich Olympics, becoming the first woman to medal in an equestrian competition. Kusner’s legal battle and subsequent success opened doors for countless women in the sport, proving that gender should not be a barrier to participation and achievement in horse racing.

Diane Crump

Diane Crump paved the way for female jockeys in 1969 when she became the first woman to compete in a pari-mutuel race at Hialeah Park. Although Penny Ann Early was granted a licence in 1968, male jockeys boycotted her participation. Crump also became the first female jockey to compete in the Kentucky Derby in 1970, finishing 15th aboard Fathom. Crump’s courage and determination were instrumental in breaking down gender barriers, and her participation in the Kentucky Derby remains a significant milestone in the history of the sport.

Barbara Jo Rubin

Jo Rubin made headlines in 1969 as the first woman to win a pari-mutuel race at a nationally recognised U.S. racetrack, riding Cohesion to victory at Charles Town. Rubin also became the first female jockey to win a race in New York. Her accomplishments were a testament to her skill and determination, and she played a vital role in changing perceptions about female jockeys in the racing industry. Rubin’s success paved the way for future generations of female jockeys to pursue their dreams in the sport.

Cheryl White 

Cheryl White became the first licensed African American woman jockey in the U.S. on June 15, 1971. She achieved her first victory on September 2 at Waterford Park, riding Jetolara. White's career included competing in Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Arabian, Paint, and Appaloosa races. In 1991, she passed the California Horse Racing Board’s steward examination and later served as a racing official at multiple racetracks. White’s diverse career and her success in various racing categories demonstrated her versatility and resilience. Her legacy continues to inspire African American women and other underrepresented groups in the sport.

Patricia “P.J.” Cooksey

She began her illustrious 26-year career in 1979, winning her first race at Waterford Park (now Mountaineer) and amassing 2,137 victories. In 1985, she became the second woman to ride in the Kentucky Derby and the first female jockey to compete in the Preakness Stakes. Cooksey’s achievements in the sport were marked by her determination and perseverance, and she remains one of the most successful female jockeys in horse racing history. Her participation in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes helped to solidify the presence of women in top-tier races.

Rosemary Homeister Jr.

Rosemary Homeister Jr. became the first female rider to win an Eclipse Award in 1992, earning honours as an outstanding apprentice jockey. Her career from 1992 to 2015 included 2,784 wins, making her a top rider on the competitive Florida circuit. Homeister’s career was characterised by her exceptional skill and dedication, earning her respect and admiration in the racing community. Her Eclipse Award win was a significant milestone, highlighting her as one of the top jockeys of her time.

Julie Krone

Krone made history in 1993 as the first woman to win a Triple Crown race, riding Colonial Affair to victory in the Belmont Stakes. In 2003, she became the first woman to win a Breeders’ Cup race. Krone's career included 3,704 victories and $90.1 million in earnings, leading to her induction into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2000. Krone’s numerous achievements and records set a high standard for female jockeys, and her induction into the Hall of Fame was a well-deserved recognition of her impact on the sport. She remains a role model for aspiring jockeys and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to horse racing.

Donna Barton Brothers

Donna Barton Brothers retired in 1998 with 1,130 wins and over $18.6 million in purse earnings. She transitioned to a career as an on-track reporter in 2000, covering major events as a television journalist for NBC Sports. Barton Brothers’ transition from jockey to journalist showcased her versatility and deep knowledge of the sport. Her insightful reporting has brought the excitement and nuances of horse racing to a broader audience, and she continues to be a respected figure in the racing community.

Rosie Napravnik 

Rosie became the first woman to win the Kentucky Oaks in 2012 and the first female rider to compete in all Triple Crown races in 2013. She also became the highest-placing female rider in the Kentucky Derby, finishing fifth aboard Mylute. Napravnik won multiple Breeders' Cup races and dominated the Fair Grounds and Keeneland standings from 2011 to 2014. Napravnik’s achievements in the sport were marked by her exceptional talent and determination, and she has earned her place among the top jockeys in horse racing history. Her victories in the Kentucky Oaks and Breeders’ Cup races demonstrated her skill and competitiveness on the biggest stages in the sport.

Marylou Whitney

Known as "The Queen of Saratoga,"  she revitalised Saratoga Springs by bringing Hollywood stars to the town and hosting grand parties. Whitney became the first woman in 80 years to breed and own a Kentucky Oaks winner in 2003. She also won the Belmont Stakes and Travers in 2004 and received the Eclipse Award of Merit in 2010. Whitney’s contributions to the sport extended beyond her success as a breeder and owner; she played a crucial role in promoting and supporting horse racing. Her philanthropy and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, and she is remembered as one of the most influential figures in horse racing history.

Penny Chenery

Penny Chenery, best known for owning Secretariat, the 1973 Triple Crown winner, revived Meadow Stable and became one of the first women admitted to The Jockey Club. Her legacy continued as she inspired generations of horse racing enthusiasts until her death in 2017. Chenery’s impact on the sport was profound, and her role in the success of Secretariat remains one of the most iconic stories in horse racing. Her leadership and vision helped to shape the future of the sport, and she is celebrated as a pioneer and trailblazer.

Marje Everett

Marje made her mark in the racing world as the daughter of Benjamin Lindheimer. She chaired Arlington and Washington Park before taking on a leadership role at Hollywood Park. Everett was instrumental in bringing the Breeders' Cup to Hollywood Park and initiating innovative marketing strategies like the Pick 6. Everett’s contributions to the sport were significant, and her leadership and vision helped to elevate the profile of horse racing. Her role in the success of the Breeders’ Cup and other major events demonstrated her influence and impact on the sport.

Stella Thayer

She purchased Tampa Bay Downs in 1986, making it the first Thoroughbred racetrack with separate female ownership and management. She served as president of the Thoroughbred Racing Association and the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, significantly impacting the sport. Thayer’s leadership and dedication to horse racing have been instrumental in promoting and supporting the sport. Her contributions to the Thoroughbred Racing Association and the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame have helped to preserve and celebrate the history and heritage of horse racing.

Barbara Livingston 

The chief photographer for the Daily Racing Form has won six Eclipse Awards for her photography and multimedia work. Her dedication to capturing the perfect image is evident in her lifelong obsession with horse racing. Livingston’s work has provided a unique and compelling perspective on the sport, capturing the beauty and excitement of horse racing. Her photographs have become iconic images that celebrate the sport and its participants, and she continues to be a leading figure in the world of equine photography.

Charlsie Cantey 

Cantey transitioned from an exercise rider to a pioneering racing broadcaster, becoming a familiar face on major networks like ABC, CBS, ESPN, and NBC over her 30-year career. Cantey’s broadcasting career brought a new level of insight and expertise to horse racing coverage, and she has been a trailblazer in the field. Her knowledge and passion for the sport have made her a respected and influential figure, and she continues to be an inspiration for women in sports broadcasting.

Women have undeniably shaped the landscape of horse racing, bringing passion, dedication, and innovation to the sport. Their historic victories and groundbreaking roles have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to continue breaking barriers. These women have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also paved the way for others to follow in their footsteps, ensuring that the legacy of women in horse racing will continue to grow and thrive.