At the Kentucky Derby, a Black Jockey Seeks a Bit of History

Kendrick Carmouche is a jockey who wants to become the first Black jockerer to win the Kentucky Derby. His father, Sylvester, was a famous joker who lost his license to ride at the sanctioned racetracks in 1990. Kendrick's father took him everywhere and taught him everything. He will hug his father before he rides Bourbonic for the Derby on Saturday. He is aware of the history of Black Jockeys in the race. Last June, he organized a moment of silence at Belmont Park for those lost to the pandemic. They also took a knee in solidarity with those protesting the killing of George Floyd.