Great Women in the Sport of Kings: America's Top Women Jockeys Tell Their Stories (Sports and Entertainment)
Women were not allowed to be jockeys in horse races until 1969. In the 30 years since, obstacles have fallen until, today, female jockeys are usually "taken for granted at tracks." This oral history lets ten jockeys talk about their career paths, their daily lives in horse racing, and their advice for budding female jockeys. Several common traits emerge: an interest in their own physical fitness, a love for animals, and an ability to communicate (with people as well as with horses, since jockeys have to hustle to get riding jobs). Most also say their social lives revolve around the track. But ten individual personalities shine through, from backgrounds both privileged and poor. Great photos enhance a lively, down-to-earth book that provides a more well-rounded look at horse racing than Julie Krone's Riding for My Life (LJ 4/15/95). A glossary and appendix of America's pioneer female jockeys are included. Recommended for public libraries.AKathryn Ruffle, Coll. of New Caledonia Lib., Prince George,Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.