First Woman in Kentucky Derby Dies at 77
A Pioneering Figure in Horse Racing
Diane Crump, a name that will forever be etched in the annals of horse racing history, passed away on New Year’s Day at the age of 77. Her death marked the end of an era for a sport that she helped reshape with her trailblazing efforts. Crump was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, and spent 2025 battling the disease. Her family had been raising funds through GoFundMe to help cover her medical expenses.
Breaking Barriers in 1969
Crump made history in 1969 when she became the first woman to compete as a professional jockey in the United States. At the time, the sport was dominated by men, and women were often excluded from even holding a jockey’s license in many states. Despite these challenges, Crump stepped onto the track with determination and resilience. Within just two weeks of her debut, she won her first race, proving her talent and earning respect in a male-dominated field.
One year later, she achieved another milestone by becoming the first female jockey to compete in the Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious races in the country. Riding Fathom, she finished 15th in a field of 17 but managed to win one of the races on the Derby Day undercard. This achievement was not only a personal victory but also a significant moment for women in horse racing.
A Legacy of Success
Crump continued to compete in horse racing until her early 50s, amassing over 220 career wins. Her contributions to the sport went beyond the racetrack; she paved the way for future generations of female jockeys who would follow in her footsteps.
Tributes and Recognition
The Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs, two of the most iconic names in horse racing, expressed their condolences following Crump’s passing. In a statement shared on X, the Kentucky Derby said:
“Today we mourn the passing of Diane Crump, the first woman to ride professionally in 1969 and the first to ride in the Kentucky Derby in 1970. Her courage opened the gates for generations. Our condolences to her loved ones.”
Although female jockeys are still rare in the sport, Crump’s legacy has inspired several others to pursue their dreams. Since her historic run in the 1970 Derby, five more women have competed in the race. Patricia “P.J.” Cooksey, Andrea Seefeldt, Julie Krone, and Rosemary Homeister each rode in a combined five Derbies between 1984 and 2003. However, it was Rosie Napravnik who truly made waves in the sport.
In 2013, Napravnik rode Mylute to a fifth-place finish in the Derby, which remains the best performance by a woman jockey in the race’s history. She also competed in the 2011 and 2014 Derbies, further cementing her place in the sport.
A Lasting Impact
Diane Crump’s journey was not just about breaking barriers; it was about redefining what was possible for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Her courage and perseverance continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps. As the horse racing community mourns her passing, they also celebrate the legacy of a true pioneer. Our hearts go out to Crump’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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