At a Glance
- First woman to ride professionally in a horse race (1969)
- First female jockey in the Kentucky Derby (1970)
- Died after battling aggressive brain cancer (2024)
- Why it matters: Her trailblazing career opened doors for women in horse racing.
Veteran jockey Diane Crump, who broke gender barriers with her historic rides in 1969 and 1970, passed away at 77 after a fight with aggressive brain cancer.
Trailblazing Career
In February 1969, Crump rode a 50-1 longshot called Bridle ‘n Bit at Hialeah Park, finishing 10th but breaking the barrier for women. A month later she won her first race at Gulfstream Park, and she continued to win 228 races before riding her last race in 1998, a month shy of her 50th birthday. Her 1970 Kentucky Derby ride on Fathom ended 15th, but her presence paved the way for future female jockeys.
- 228 career wins
- Last race: 1998, just before age 50
- First win: Gulfstream Park, 1969
Legacy and Recognition
Mike Anderson, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack, said:
> “Diane Crump will be forever respected and fondly remembered in horse racing lore.”
Chris Goodlett, of the Kentucky Derby Museum, added:
> “Diane Crump’s name stands for courage, grit, and progress. Her determination in the face of overwhelming odds opened doors for generations of female jockeys and inspired countless others far beyond racing.”
| Milestone | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First professional ride | 1969 | 10th place, Bridle ‘n Bit |
| First Kentucky Derby ride | 1970 | 15th place, Fathom |
| Career wins | 1998 | 228 victories |
The quotes highlight the respect she earned from racing leaders and the lasting impact of her courage.
Personal Life and Passing
After retiring, Crump started a business helping people buy and sell horses and brought her therapy Dachshunds to hospitals. In assisted living, she was a beloved figure, with doctors and nurses visiting regularly. She was cremated and her ashes interred between her parents at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Front Royal, Virginia. Her forearm tattoos read “Kindness” and “Compassion,” reflecting her lifelong values.
Key Takeaways
- Diane Crump broke gender barriers in horse racing in 1969 and 1970.
- She amassed 228 career wins and inspired future generations of female jockeys.
- Her legacy lives on through the respect of racing leaders and her personal acts of kindness.
The story of Diane Crump reminds us that perseverance and compassion can reshape an entire sport.
