The Investec Derby – Celebrating Women
The Investec Derby, also known as the Epsom Derby, has historically proven itself to be a place
where outstanding talent is rewarded every time – irrespective of gender.
One could say that it all gained traction when in 1996, Alex Greaves made history by becoming
the very first female jockey to compete in the beloved event.
In essence, almost 150 years had passed since the inaugural race back in 1780 before the first
female even gained any form of victory associated with the event. In 1918, Gainsborough, a
horse owned by one Lady James Douglas, won the prestigious event by a length and a half.
But it would be many years later before Greaves stood out from the crowd by becoming the first
female jockey physically competing in the race.

Through The Glass Ceiling

Even though amazing strides are being made by women in horse racing, it is an industry that
remains male-dominated. It certainly took outstanding talent and determination for Greaves to
break through the glass ceiling.
Exactly a year after finishing 20 th in the Derby, the amazing rider became the first female jockey
to reign victorious in a Group 1 event on UK soil. This remarkable feat paved the way for other
women to follow.
But although Greaves during an interview explained that her success raised the prominence of
female jockeys in the sport, she also emphasised that it would take another 16 years for another
female rider to appear on the starting line.
This was when Hayley Turner rode Cavaleiro.

The Turner Effect

Turner’s Derby achievement attracted much interest – especially from the non-racing
community.
Inside the world of horse racing, however, Hayley Turner was already a name to be reckoned
with on the track and in Australian sports
betting circles.
Even though Turner and Cavaleiro finished last, the champion rider says she can only really
recall truly fond memories about the race. She remembers marvelling at the fact that the one
sided of the track had been populated by folks in top hats enjoying champagne – and the other
by ordinary people having a barbeque.

Reshaping The Landscape

Women like Turner and Greaves are reshaping the very landscape of horse racing at the Epsom
Derby.
Recent times have witnessed an incredible surge in the participation of female jockeys on
winning horses. This clearly demonstrates their remarkable skill, and perhaps even more
importantly, their ability to compete on equal footing.
Since Greaves and Turner, a growing number of super talented female jockeys have graced the
turf at Epsom Downs. They include Hollie Doyle, Nicola Currie, and Josephine Gordon. These
women are challenging the mistaken notion that horse racing is solely a male pursuit and sport.
True Equality
But the growing number of women competing in the Derby not only serves as a representation
of triumph in terms of gender equality. It also acts as a powerful catalyst for much needed
change within the horse racing industry.
Today, racing authorities are beginning to recognise the need to level the playing field by
creating a space for all jockeys, regardless of gender.