Born: 1976 (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Biography:
Chantal Sutherland (born February 23, 1976, in Winnipeg, Manitoba) is a Canadian model, television personality, and jockey in North American Thoroughbred horse racing. Often referred to as the Danica Patrick of horse racing, Sutherland has made a significant impact on the sport and is regarded as one of the most influential female jockeys of her time.
Growing up in the Toronto, Ontario area, Sutherland was exposed to the world of horses from an early age. Her father, Hugh, owned a horse farm and trained standardbreds, instilling in her a deep love and passion for these majestic animals. As a young girl, she excelled in competitive field hockey and even received an invitation to try out for Canada’s junior World Cup team. However, her true calling lay in horse racing.
After graduating from York University with a degree in communications and psychology, Sutherland decided to explore the opportunity to ride Thoroughbreds in flat racing. In the year 2000, she caught the attention of the Del Mar Racetrack’s Del Mar Thoroughbred Club marketing team. Recognizing the need to attract a more youthful and female audience, they hired Sutherland to be the new face of the Del Mar racetrack.
This strategic move turned out to be a tremendous success. Over the next 13 years, Del Mar underwent a transformation, with its demographics and audience attendance shifting dramatically. Sutherland’s role as the poster girl for the track played a significant part in this transformation. Through her charisma, beauty, and genuine love for the sport, she attracted a new generation of fans and helped establish Del Mar as a fashionable and must-visit destination.
Sutherland’s skills as a jockey were just as impressive as her impact off the track. On October 9, 2000, at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, she rode to her first career victory. The following year, she was recognized with the prestigious Sovereign Award as Canada’s top apprentice jockey. In 2002, she was once again awarded the Sovereign Award, solidifying her position as one of Canada’s highest-paid female athletes. In a span of eight months, she earned a staggering $5.7 million in purses.
Throughout her career, Sutherland achieved numerous victories and accolades. In 2005, she ventured to Florida and New York, where she had the opportunity to learn from esteemed jockeys such as Ángel Cordero Jr., Shane Sellers, and Edgar Prado. Her dedication to the sport and relentless pursuit of excellence made her a respected figure in the racing community.
Sutherland’s impact extended beyond the racetrack. Her appearances on the reality TV show Jockeys on Animal Planet further showcased her talent and unique personality to a broader audience. By breaking barriers and succeeding in a male-dominated field, she became an inspiration for aspiring female jockeys and a symbol of empowerment for women in sports.
Motivated by her love for horses and a desire to defy expectations, Chantal Sutherland has shaped the world of horse racing and left an indelible mark in the sport’s history. Her influence on society extends beyond her achievements as a jockey, as she has become an icon of strength, determination, and grace. She continues to inspire generations of women and leaves a lasting legacy in women’s history.
Awards:
– Sovereign Award for Canada’s top apprentice jockey (2001, 2002)