Napravnik gets misty during ceremony

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Rosie Napravnik was temporarily overcome with emotion when addressing an appreciative crowd Saturday while being honored by Churchill Downs for her numerous feats as a jockey.

In halting words, Napravnik, who is expecting a baby in June and stopped competitive riding as of Nov. 1, said: “I want to thank the guys that are down here – most of the jockeys – for helping me become a better rider in a great colony.”

She then calmed herself when thanking a handful of owners instrumental in her career, including Jack Wolf, Ken Ramsey, Ron Winchell, and Brereton Jones.
A video tribute was played on the infield board, highlighted by Napravnik’s two wins in the Kentucky Oaks. She was given numerous gifts, including a plaque proclaiming her a new member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. In addition, Saturday was proclaimed “Rosie Napravnik Day” in Louisville by Mayor Greg Fischer.

Napravnik will continue to work behind the scenes in assisting her husband, trainer Joe Sharp, telling the crowd she would “be around … just in a different outfit.”