Diane Crump, a trailblazer in horse racing, passed away recently at the age of 77. She made history in 1969 as the first woman to ride professionally in a horse race and later became the first female jockey in the Kentucky Derby.
Diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer just a few months prior, Crump spent her final days in hospice care in Winchester, Virginia. Her daughter, Della Payne, shared the news of her passing.
Throughout her career, Crump won 228 races, retiring in 1998, just shy of her 50th birthday. Her journey began on February 7, 1969, at Hialeah Park in Florida, where she faced significant challenges. In a time when women jockeys were rare, she, along with a few others, fought hard to earn their licenses. Crump’s debut was tense; several male jockeys boycotted the race, but others rallied around her.
In a notable moment during her first race, a bugler played “Smile for Me, My Diane” as she entered the track. Although she finished 10th, the race marked a significant breakthrough for women in the sport. Later that month, she achieved her first victory at Gulfstream Park.
Crump’s influence extended beyond her individual races. She became the first woman to ride in the Kentucky Derby in 1970, finishing 15th out of 17. It would be another 14 years before another woman jockey competed in the Derby, with few following in the decades since.
Crump’s legacy is remembered fondly. Mike Anderson, president of Churchill Downs, acknowledged her as an iconic trailblazer who fulfilled her childhood dreams. Chris Goodlett from the Kentucky Derby Museum highlighted her courage, stating that Crump’s determination opened doors for future female jockeys and inspired many.
After retiring, Crump dedicated herself to horse-related business ventures and brought joy to others through her therapy dogs, visiting hospitals regularly. Her commitment to helping those in need showcased her inner strength and kindness. Even in her later years, she was well-known within her community.
Crump embodied resilience. Her daughter described her as stubborn, never taking “no” for an answer, especially when helping others. Late in life, she adorned her forearms with tattoos that read “Kindness” and “Compassion”—principles that guided her life.
Diane Crump will be cremated, and her ashes interred in Virginia, beside her parents. Her impact on horse racing and the lives she touched will not be forgotten.
For more on gender milestones in sports, you can read about women’s achievements in various fields here.
