Black jockeys played a major role in the early history of the Kentucky Derby. From the Derby’s beginning in 1875 through the late 1800s, Black jockeys dominated the race, winning most of the early Derbys. Many had developed their horsemanship skills while working with horses during slavery and passed that expertise into professional racing.

As horse racing became more profitable, Black jockeys increasingly faced discrimination, intimidation, and violence from competitors. Owners also began hiring fewer Black jockeys. By 1911, Black jockeys had largely disappeared from the Kentucky Derby.

Jimmy Winkfield, who won the Derby in 1901 and 1902, was the last Black jockey to win the race for decades. Despite their exclusion, Black jockeys helped introduce techniques and innovations that influenced modern horse racing.