03/07/2013 5:50PM

Julie Krone to be inducted into National Women's Hall of Fame

By Matt Hegarty
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Julie Krone, the Hall of Fame rider who retired in 2004 as the winningest female jockey of all time, will be inducted this year into the National Women’s Hall of Fame, the organization announced Thursday.

Krone, the first woman to ride a winner of a Triple Crown race and a Breeders’ Cup race, will be among nine inductees into the Women’s Hall of Fame this year, a list that includes political and business leaders, scientists, artists, astronauts, and athletes. The 2013 induction class will be honored in a ceremony Oct. 12 at the Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca, N.Y. The Hall has 247 current members.

Krone was inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2000, one year after initially retiring. After working as a television commentator for several years, she returned to racing in 2002 and rode until 2004, amassing a total of 3,704 wins, including the 1993 Belmont Stakes on Colonial Affair. Also that year, she was named ESPN’s Professional Female Athlete of the Year.

Among the other notable athletes in the Women’s Hall of Fame are Billie Jean King, Althea Gibson, Wilma Rudolph, and Mildred “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias.

Krone resides in California with her husband, DRF Executive Columnist Jay Hovdey.

John Nicoletti 6 months ago
As a former owner from New Jersey, who was fortunate enough to ride Julie, at Monmouth Park, I can tell you, that she was one tough gal, who always rode to win, be it a claimer, or stakes horse. A true class act, and a well deserved award. Congrats,Julie, and always the best of luck.
Bruce Baudoux 6 months ago
This is great news for Julie Krone-Hovdey and family. Julie was a terrific rider and the first woman to win a Triple Crown Race. She deserves all the accolades she receives and if Rose-Anna Napravnik perserveres as a rider there is no doubt she will break some of the records Julie was able to set in her era. One thing Julie Krone was, was competitive. She never hesitated to jump in a hole at the same time other riders took up in fear. She fit most horses like a glove and always told it like it was. The last time I saw her, that hadn't changed a bit. Congrats Julie on entry into this special Hall.
Gary Peacock 6 months ago
Wonderful. Deserving. Congratulations Lady K. :)
Sal Carcia 6 months ago
This is such a high honor for both Julie and the game. Congratulations to a most deserving inductee, the amazing Julie Krone.