Horseracing, traditionally known as the “sport of kings,” is witnessing a shift in Maryland, thanks to the rising prominence of women in the industry. Forest Boyce, a successful jockey with over 1,000 wins and $38 million in career earnings, exemplifies this change. She has always had a passion for horses and sees her career as a unique opportunity to earn a living in a male-dominated field where women represent less than 10% of jockeys.

Brittney Russell, another trailblazer, has made her mark as a leading trainer in Maryland, boasting 633 career wins and ranking 11th nationally. She trains around 100 horses and emphasizes the importance of loving the sport. Both women prefer to focus on their skills and contributions rather than their gender, highlighting the increasing visibility of female competitors in horseracing.

The upcoming races on Black-Eyed Susan Day and Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course will showcase their talents, providing a platform for these fierce competitors. Russell notes the competitive nature of the sport and the excitement of being involved in significant events, reflecting the evolving landscape of horseracing where women are increasingly making their mark.