PACESETTER

THE ERASURE AND RESURGENCE OF THE BLACK JOCKEY

pace·​set·​ter (pās-set-ter)-The horse that is running in front.

“Pacesetter" is a feature-length documentary exploring the uncelebrated legacy of the Black jockey from the 19th century to the present. Unbeknownst to most race day fans and revelers, Black jockeys played a pivotal role in the dawn of American horse racing, winning 15 of the first 28 Kentucky Derbies before racism forced them out of the industry. One hundred and fifty years later, “Pacesetter” examines the impact of this erasure through the eyes of two current Black jockeys, Kendrick Carmouche and Teneca Wolfe. This documentary bears witness to Kendrick and Teneca's reclamation of their rightful place in the sport’s modern era. As White and Latino jockeys dominate the sport, it is crucial that we finally learn the many contributions made by Black jockeys to the industry before it is too late. Further, “Pacesetter” invites musicians, playwrights, painters, and fashion designers into the conversation to contemporize the Black jockey's triumphant story and ensure that their legacy lives on. 

Teneca Wolfe-Bell (born 1987) is a Canadian jockey, the only Black female rider running races in Ontario, and believed to be the first Black female jockey to win a race in North America. She won her first race at Fort Erie Race Track on June 28, 2016. As of 2016, she was one of only six female riders in Ontario. She started in the horse racing industry as a hotwalker, then a groom, to an exercise rider, before becoming a jockey.

Kendrick Carmouche earned a reputation the king of the riders in Philadelphia when he had five straight seasons with more than 200 victories and won a record four consecutive titles at Parx Racing, formerly called Philadelphia Park. Carmouche reached his milestone 2000th victory in September 2011. The native of Vinton, La., comes from a riding family. His father, Sylvester Jr., and his brother Sylvester III also ride professionally. Carmouche began his riding career in his home state, first at Delta Downs before moving to Evangeline Downs. Early in his career before moving to Philadelphia, Carmouche, his father and his brother rode at the same meets. He now rides at tracks on the East Coast and is one of the leading riders at Aqueduct.