By 1808Delaware
Delaware is gearing up to host a significant event celebrating the life and legacy of Cheryl White, the first African American female jockey in the United States. On Thursday, September 12, the community will come together at The Barn at Stratford for “The Cheryl White Story,” a special program that shines a spotlight on this pioneering figure in horse racing.
The event promises to be a memorable evening filled with storytelling and reflection. Raymond White, Jr., Cheryl’s brother, will take center stage to share personal anecdotes and insights into his sister’s remarkable journey. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Cheryl White’s groundbreaking achievements and the challenges she overcame as she made history in a sport traditionally dominated by men.
An Evening of Insight and Inspiration
The celebration begins with a VIP Reception and Book Signing from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This exclusive gathering allows guests to engage directly with Raymond White, Jr., while also getting a signed copy of the book that chronicles Cheryl White’s inspiring life. This intimate setting provides a unique opportunity for attendees to delve deeper into the story of a woman who not only broke barriers but also paved the way for future generations of athletes.
Following the reception, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM, the General Admission Program will open, offering a broader audience the chance to hear more about Cheryl White’s legacy. Tickets for the VIP Reception are priced at $25, while general admission tickets are available for $15. The evening is expected to draw horse racing enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone inspired by tales of resilience and determination.
Cheryl White: A Legacy of Firsts
Cheryl White’s story is one of perseverance and triumph. Born on October 29, 1953, in Cleveland, she grew up immersed in the horse racing world. Her father, Raymond White, was a trainer, and her mother, Doris, owned racehorses, creating a foundation that would support Cheryl’s aspirations.
At just 17, Cheryl White became the first African American female jockey licensed to ride in the United States. Her debut race was on June 15, 1971, at Thistledown Racetrack in Ohio. Though she finished last, her determination never wavered. She made history just a few months later on September 2, 1971, when she won her first race at Waterford Park in West Virginia, marking the first victory for an African American female jockey in a thoroughbred race.
Cheryl White’s career is studded with significant milestones. She became the first woman to win five races in a single day at the Fresno Fair in 1983 and was a leading Appaloosa rider in the United States for several years. In 1991, she made history once again by becoming the first woman to serve as a steward at a California racetrack, after passing the California Horse Racing Board Steward Examination.
White retired from professional riding in 1992 but remained an influential figure in the industry as a racing official. Her life and career continue to inspire, and her legacy is captured in a book that aims to educate and inspire middle school-aged children, ensuring that her story lives on.
A Community Effort
“The Cheryl White Story” event is made possible through the efforts of several community partners, including The Barn at Stratford, the Delaware County Historical Society, and the Unity Community Center. These organizations recognize the importance of celebrating Cheryl White’s contributions, not just to horse racing, but to breaking down racial and gender barriers in American sports.
The event in Delaware serves as both a tribute and an educational opportunity, reminding attendees of the incredible impact that Cheryl White had on horse racing and the broader sporting community. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance, courage, and a refusal to be confined by societal expectations.
For those looking to attend, tickets are now available online. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a special evening dedicated to honoring a true pioneer in American sports.
Onofre_Bouvila, CC BY 2.5 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
