ABIGAIL Able made racing history again on Thursday, August 6, 2026, becoming the first female jockey to ride in the Jamaica Derby in its 106th running at Caymanas Park.

Able partnered the Jason DaCosta-trained Eye Of The Tiger in the 12-furlong Classic and finished seventh. The race was won by stablemate London Spirit, ridden by Tevin Foster.

It was another barrier broken for Able, who in November 2019 became the first female jockey to ride in the prestigious Diamond Mile. On that occasion she rode the late Wayne DaCosta’s Drummer Boy in the 16-horse field.

Thursday’s Derby mount continued what has been a steady push for women in a male-dominated sport at Caymanas Park, opening doors and inspiring other female riders coming through the ranks.

Riding with confidence, Able followed instructions to go to the front with Eye Of The Tiger.

“Honestly, I am super proud. Congrats to the owner, trainer, jockey, and groom,” Able said after.

Tevin Foster celebrates his Jamaica Derby victory aboard London Spirit with Abigail Able on Thursday, Augist 6, 2026. (Photo: Karl Mclarty)

“Right before the race me and the trainer had a discussion. The trainer said break, go in front but don’t rush him, you can claim the lead because you are the speed and that was exactly what I did. I was on the lead and I was just doing my thing,” she added.

Her lead didn’t last into the lane.

“About three furlongs to go, I knew that my horse had given me enough. At that point, horses covered me and I knew it was that,” she added.

While Eye Of The Tiger didn’t stay the trip, Able’s presence in the Derby saddle was the story many at the track took home — another first checked off, and more ground gained for women in Jamaican racing.

— Ruddy Allen