Episode 60. Patricia “PJ” Cooksey – Former Female Jockey & 1984 Kentucky Derby Contender
PJ Cooksey believes you should find what you are passionate about in life and go and do it.
PJ is a legendary horse racing jockey. She won her first race with Turf Advisor at Waterford Park (now Mountaineer Park) in 1979. A four-time Turfway Park leading rider, she has won 2,137 races since beginning her career in 1979, and she is second all-time in total victories by a female jockey. PJ’s career purse winnings total over $19 million.
PJ also worked as a thoroughbred racing commentator for WAVE-TV in Louisville and ESPN for racing’s most important events including the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, and the Breeders’ Cup.
PJ is also a breast cancer survivor. She received the 2002 Lombardi Symbol of Courage which is awarded to a significant sports figure battling cancer.