Farewell, Diane. Your Spirit and Determination Live On

^{Diane discussing pre-race strategy with trainer Tom Calumet – PC: Jim Raftery – Keenland Library Collection courtesy of Mark Shrager}

Diane Crump was not an intentional trailblazer. She pursued her passion. That happened to be in the world of the male-dominated 1960s horse racing industry. Who had ever heard of a woman jockey? Today, we all know the name – Diane Crump. She broke barriers not only for horse racing but for women, in general. “Because of women like Diane . . . women became lawyers, physicians, and astronauts. Diane’s efforts unlocked the doors, then we jumped in,” wrote a friend on her social media page. Read our blog about Diane and Mark Shrager’s book, Diane Crump: A Horse-Racing Pioneer’s Life in the Saddle.

In 1970, Diane was the first female jockey to race in the Kentucky Derby. She won 228 races over her nearly 30-year career. She devoted her life to family and healing hearts and spirits in her subsequent 27 years where she created a ministry of hope and comfort with her three dachshunds – Animal Assisted Therapy program. She touched people’s lives wherever she went.

As a horse-crazy girl, Diane was my hero. Her tenacity and forward momentum helped propel women’s goals and professions. She inspired me to believe in my competence throughout my life. She made incredible contributions to our world. We lost the person but her beacon shines on. Rest in peace, Diane.

Memorial services will be held on January 24th from 10 AM to 12 PM at Fishnet Church in Front Royal, Va.

On February 5, 2026, the National Sporting Library & Museum will host a special evening with veteran turf writer Mark Shrager, author of Diane Crump: A Horse-Racing Pioneer’s Life in the Saddle.