Emma-Jayne Wilson began riding horses at the age of nine and later pursued equine management at the University of Guelph. Despite being told she might be too tall for the sport, her passion was reignited by a chance meeting with renowned jockey Sandy Hawley. Hawley connected her with a trainer, leading Wilson to gain experience with thoroughbreds before becoming a jockey.
In August 2004, at 23, she rode her first race at Woodbine Racetrack, securing her first win the following day. By December 2005, Wilson had won 175 races, leading the jockey standings at Woodbine and earning over $6.9 million in purses. Her exceptional performance earned her the 2005 Sovereign Award for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey in Canada and the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey in North America.
Breaking Barriers and Setting Records
Wilson's career reached new heights in 2007 when she became the first woman to win the Queen's Plate, North America's oldest and Canada's most prestigious horse race, aboard Mike Fox. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career and in Canadian horse racing history. By 2012, Wilson had become Canada's all-time winningest female jockey, surpassing Francine Villeneuve's decade-long record.
Throughout her career, Wilson has won numerous accolades, including two Sovereign Awards and an Eclipse Award. She also became the first North American female jockey to be granted a licence to ride in Hong Kong. In 2015, she led an all-female team to victory in the Shergar Cup in England, and in 2018, she won the Avelino Gomez Memorial Award, becoming only the second woman to do so.
Training and Philosophy
Wilson's path to success was meticulously planned. She did not rush from being an exercise rider to an apprentice jockey, but instead took her time to understand the business, marketing, and veterinary aspects of the industry. Her agent, Mike Luider, noticed her potential early on and guided her through a comprehensive preparation phase, including media training and race tape analysis.
Wilson's love for the sport and the horses themselves is evident in her approach. She believes in understanding each horse's unique needs, adapting her riding style to coax the best performance from her mounts. This dedication to her craft and her deep connection with the horses have been key to her success.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Wilson, one of the few publicly out jockeys in North America, manages to balance her professional and personal life with remarkable skill. Her wife, Laura Trotter, an equine chiropractor, and their twin daughters, Grace and Avery, are integral parts of her life. Despite the demanding schedule of a jockey, Wilson maintains a strong bond with her family, often relying on technology to stay connected.
Her physical conditioning is another critical aspect of her career. A former rugby and fast-pitch softball player, Wilson incorporates CrossFit, hot yoga, and workouts on a mechanical horse into her routine to stay fit and agile. This rigorous training regimen has helped her maintain peak performance levels throughout her career.
Reflecting on a Stellar Career
Wilson's career is a testament to her competitive spirit, determination, and love for the sport. She has become a significant figure in horse racing, not just for her achievements, but also for her role in breaking gender barriers in the industry. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for horses to a record-breaking jockey serves as an inspiration to many.
Emma-Jayne Wilson's legacy is one of perseverance, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to her sport. Her achievements have not only earned her a place among the top jockeys in North America but have also paved the way for future generations of female riders.