Charles Town to honor Rubin, first female jockey to notch win

Barbara Jo Rubin, the first female jockey to win a race at a recognized track, will be honored Feb. 22 at Charles Town, the 50th anniversary of her history-making ride at the West Virginia oval.

Rubin will attend the races with family and be recognized in the winner’s circle.

“Charles Town has a very special place in my heart,” Rubin said. “Everyone at Charles Town welcomed me, and it was so very memorable for me.”

In 1969 at age 19, Rubin rode Cohesian to a half-length victory at Charles Town. She subsequently became the first female to ride in New York on March 14 of that year. She won with her first Aqueduct mount.

Rubin’s winning ride at Charles Town drew a mixed reception from the fans.

“The cheer of the crowd overwhelmed my hecklers,” she said. “It was a cold night when I rode in 1969, but the fans were awesome in the most part.”

Rubin’s career lasted just 89 mounts due to injuries. She currently lives in Illinois and owns Classic Acres, a boarding and training facility in Troy, along with her husband, Gordon.

Charles Town also honored Rubin on the 40th anniversary of her first win.

Diane Crump was the first female rider to compete at a recognized track. Her first mount came at Hialeah on Feb. 7, 1969.