Canadian · Ontario, Canada · Born 17 July 1984Canadian jockey who became the first female rider to win the Queen's Plate and was the leading female jockey in North America by career wins in 2009.
Born in Toronto on July 17, 1984, Emma-Jayne Wilson grew up in a family deeply connected to horse racing. Her father, David Wilson, was a successful trainer, providing her with early exposure to the sport and its intricacies. This background fostered her natural affinity for horses and laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking career in Canadian thoroughbred racing. Wilson's professional jockey career began in the early 2000s, and she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor in North American horse racing. Her breakthrough came through consistent performances at major Canadian tracks, where she demonstrated exceptional race craft and tactical awareness. She became a regular competitor in the Queen's Plate, Canada's most prestigious horse race, showcasing her ability to perform on the sport's biggest stages. Her success extended beyond Canadian borders, earning her recognition in American racing circles and an Eclipse Award nomination, one of the sport's highest honors. The pinnacle of Wilson's achievements came with her Sovereign Award as Canadian Champion Jockey, making her one of the few women to receive this distinction. This award recognized not only her statistical accomplishments but her consistent excellence across multiple racing seasons. Throughout her career, she accumulated numerous stakes victories and maintained remarkable consistency at the highest levels of competition, competing successfully against the sport's elite male jockeys. Wilson's career represents a watershed moment for women in Canadian horse racing. As the most successful female jockey in the country's history, she broke significant gender barriers and proved that excellence in the sport transcends traditional boundaries. Her achievements demonstrated the combination of physical skill, mental resilience, and strategic thinking required for sustained success in professional horse racing. Wilson's legacy extends beyond her individual accomplishments, inspiring a new generation of female jockeys and contributing to the evolution of gender equality in Canadian thoroughbred racing.
First female jockey to win Queen's Plate
How They Played
Tactical rider known for patient racing and strong finishes
Lasting Impact
Pioneering female jockey who broke barriers in Canadian racing
Career Honours
- Sovereign Award (Canadian Champion Jockey)
- Queen's Plate competitor
- Eclipse Award nominee
Canadian Athletes