National Sporting Library & Museum FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: 01/12/2026 Contact Julie Banner Phone 540-687-6542 ext. 25 Email JBanner@NationalSporting.org Web NationalSporting.org Mail P.O. Box 1335 Middleburg, VA 20118 National Sporting Library & Museum to
Host Author Mark Shrager Honoring Racing Legend Diane Crump MIDDLEBURG, VA — On February 5, 2026, the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) will host a special evening with veteran turf writer Mark Shrager, author of Diane Crump: A Horse-Racing Pioneer’s Life in the Saddle. Coming just over a month after Diane Crump’s passing at age 77, he will honor her life and legacy as a horse-racing pioneer. In the late 1960s, Crump challenged a racing bureaucracy that viewed female jockeys with skepticism and hostility. Despite facing boycotts and heckling, Crump’s persistence paved the way for future generations of riders. A Legacy of Firsts The evening will explore the pivotal moments of Crump’s career, including: The Historic Ride: On February 7, 1969, at Hialeah Racetrack, Crump became the first woman to ride in a pari-mutuel race in the United States, escorted to the track by a phalanx of police for her protection. Shattering Tradition: In 1970, she became the first woman to compete in the Kentucky Derby, breaking a 95-year allmale streak. A Distinguished Career: Over her time in the saddle, she amassed 235 wins, proving her proficiency on Thoroughbreds that many other riders refused to mount. Shrager’s biography, which relies on Crump’s own narrative and numerous first-hand interviews, offers a definitive look at the athlete Churchill Downs President Mike Anderson recently noted “will be forever respected and fondly remembered in horse racing lore.” PROGRAM SCHEDULE 5 – 5:45pm: Cocktail Reception 5:45pm – 7pm: Author Discussion and Q&A followed by a book signing with Mark Shrager
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Diane Crump: A Horse-Racing Pioneer’s Life in the Saddle will be available for purchase at the event. TICKETS Purchase tickets $20 for Members, $30 for Non-Members National Sporting Library & Museum The National Sporting Library & Museum is located in Middleburg, VA, the heart of beautiful horse country. Founded in 1954, the renowned research Library and fine art Museum highlight the rich heritage and tradition of country pursuits. Angling, horsemanship, shooting, steeplechasing, foxhunting, flat racing, polo, coaching, and wildlife are among the subjects one can explore in the organization’s general stacks, rare book holdings, archives, and art collection. The NSLM offers a wide variety of educational programs, exhibitions, and family activities throughout the year, and is open to researchers and the public. There is no admission fee to the Library. The Museum charges $10 for adults, $8 for youths (age 13–18), and $8 for seniors. NSLM members and children age 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Library & Museum hours are Thursday–Sunday 10am to 5pm.