Thistledown Racetrack in Cleveland, Ohio has played a pioneering role in advancing diversity within American horse racing through several historic firsts:

Cheryl White - First African American Female Jockey (1971)

• Made her debut at age 17 on June 15, 1971 riding Ace Reward
• Had a 20-year career with 3,160 starts and 227 wins
• Career earnings of $762,624 with 25.5% in-the-money finishes
• Later raced extensively on California's fair circuit
• Achieved approximately 750 total wins across all racing levels
• Became California's first female racing steward after retiring in 1992
• Passed away in 2019 at age 65

Rick Walker - First African American Head Starter (2004)

• Appointed at age 39 after working at Thistledown for 7 years
• Previously served as assistant starter from 2001
• Came from a racing family background
• Recognized for strong horsemanship and rapport with horsemen

Earlier Groundbreaking Officials:

• Charles Reed (1982) - Nation's first black racing official, serving as placing judge
• Darryl Parker (1986) - America's first African American steward
• Both appointments demonstrated Thistledown's commitment to diversity in racing leadership

These historic appointments at Thistledown helped pave the way for greater inclusivity throughout American horse racing, establishing important precedents that influenced the broader industry.

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