Thistledown Racecourse has played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in American horse racing. Here are the key historic firsts that occurred at this Cleveland-area track:

Cheryl White - First Black Female Jockey (1971)

• Made her historic debut at age 17 on June 15, 1971
• Rode Ace Reward in a six-furlong race
• 20-year career stats: 3,160 starts, 227 wins, $762,624 in earnings
• Later became first female California racing steward
• Passed away in 2019 at age 65

First Black Racing Officials:

• Charles Reed (1982) - First black racing official in U.S. history

  • Served as placing judge from 1982-1989
  • Previously worked in secretary's office since 1964

• Darryl Parker (1986) - First black steward in U.S. history

  • Served until 1999
  • Later worked as inspector for Ohio State Racing Commission

• Rick Walker (2004) - First African American head starter

  • Previously worked at track for 7 years
  • Became assistant starter in 2001 before promotion to head starter
  • Praised for horse expertise and relationship with horsemen

These groundbreaking appointments at Thistledown helped pave the way for increased diversity in American horse racing, establishing the track as a pioneer in providing opportunities regardless of race.

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