Women in Racing

On display in the McBean Gallery from July 20, 2019 to Jan. 2, 2022

Women have been involved in the sport of Thoroughbred racing in America for more than 100 years. The pioneers and trailblazers of the past paved the way for future generations of horse lovers and racing enthusiasts, allowing them to continue to break boundaries in a male-dominated sport and industry. Featuring art, photographs and multimedia from the Museum Collection and on loan, Women in Racing honors the women involved in every aspect of Thoroughbred racing.

Some exhibition highlights included: a timeline of firsts celebrating the milestone achievements of the pioneers of the sport, artifacts from the career of pioneering female jockey Wantha Davis, Frances Genter’s pillbox hat worn during Unbridled’s Kentucky Derby victory, items from Hall of Fame jockey Julie Krone’s historic Belmont Stakes victory, the inaugural Diana Handicap trophy won by the first licensed female trainer Mary Hirsch, artifacts and portraits relating to every woman inducted into the Hall of Fame, and an interactive exhibit featuring race footage and short films for visitors to explore. Visitors are encouraged to share their own racing stories in a special interactive section of the exhibit featuring a message board and photo-opportunity.

Our message board has now gone digital to reach more people. To share your own racing story, please click here to access our GoogleForm digital submission form.

Please enjoy this short feature produced by NYRA of our opening night celebration here.

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame acknowledges the support of the Edward P. Evans Foundation in underwriting this special exhibition.