11 weeks ago on June 10, Jena Antonucci made her first etching into the history books when she became the first female trainer to win a Triple Crown Race after her horse, Arcangelo, won at Belmont. Now, just two months later at Travers Stake in Saratoga Springs, Antonucci decided the one time wasn’t going to be enough.

Leaders of Tomorrow: Jena Antonucci Continues to Make Horse Racing History 

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Jockeyed by Javier Castellano, Arcangelo brought home the Travers victory making Antonucci the second female trainer to win at Travers. Antonucci has showcased her devotion and resilience time and time again as she continues to rewrite history and the sport of horse racing. 

All of Antonucci’s hard-work and determination paid off not once, but twice, and with a 3-year-old horse, there is more history to be made. Showcasing her talent, and the impact female trainers are having around the sport, Antonucci was elated to celebrate her well-deserved win. The horse trainer said despite limitations or restrictions one may face, as long as you keep fighting, nothing can hold you back.

Credit: The Salt Lake Tribute

“Anyone that wants something bad enough, you just have to work your tail off for it,” Antonucci said. “It doesn’t matter – man, woman, boy, girl – that’s just white noise. If you want it, go fight for it and make it happen for yourself.” 

Credit: Daily Racing Form

Prior to Antonucci’s victory, there was only one other woman who had taken home Travers’ gold – Mary Hirsch. In 1938, Hirsch defied the odds and became the first female trainer to win at Travers’ with her horse, Thanksgiving. 85 years later, history has been made with leaders like Antonucci paving the way for future female trainers to come. 

Thanks to Antonucci and fellow female trainers who aren’t afraid to go against the naysayers and showcase their talent, the power of female leadership is being displayed worldwide for all to see. Antonucci is an inspiration to all, and is continuing to prove that female leaders are changing the world. And in Antonucci’s case, the change is happening one race at a time. 

Credit: Past The Wire