Diane Crump, the first woman to ride as a professional jockey in the United States, has died at the age of 77. She had been receiving palliative care since October after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer.
Crump passed away peacefully on New Year's Eve at a hospice, surrounded by family and friends. Her daughter, Della Payne, announced the news, saying: 'Mom passed away peacefully tonight. She ended her life surrounded by friends and family. Thank you for being the best support system.'
Crump faced hostility and rampant sexism in the 1960s to pursue her dream of becoming a jockey. She needed a police escort to walk through crowds at her debut in Florida in 1969. The following year, she became the first female jockey to ride in the Kentucky Derby, finishing 15th of 17. She retired in 1999 with 235 career wins.
Crump remained active in the horse industry until her health declined. A fundraiser was launched to support her care, with her daughter describing her as having 'courage, compassion, and a trailblazing spirit.'
