Black Jockeys

Bedelia shares what will be recognized as a proud and fundamental piece of Black American history through Chester, a young stableboy enslaved to a plantation in Kentucky. Chester introduces us to the life of America's first sports stars, our black jockeys, and a society they endured on their journey from physical chains to reigning over what was recognized as "America's Pastime."

Most of the inspirational, genuine, and proud history of the Black Jockey has been whispered about and shared through the oral tradition of storytelling but virtually hidden. Until 1921, The industry was dominated by the most prominent and sought- after Black American Jockeys.

However, between 1921 and 1999, not a single Black Jockey was given access to compete. Bedelia unfolds the events that led to the greatness of our earliest black athletes, being the foundation for "Americas' Pastime," one the most lucrative industries during that period, and invites us to examine how the men recognized as superstars of their era became represented by a lacquered, black-faced statue.

Nationally acclaimed author Bedelia Hilburn hails from Cincinnati Ohio. She has garnered much acclaim for her research and insight into the history and evolution of one of Americas earliest competitive sports, American Horse Racing. In her first book, "The History of Americas First Sports Stars, BLACK JOCKEYS, A Journey From Chains To Reins," Hilburn peels back layers of the industry to examine the challenges encountered by enslaved and free African Americans who were the foundation of the sport that became one of the most lucrative businesses established in the United States and abroad.

When Hilburn is not serving in her community, or baking, as her bloodline has the last name of Baker, She writes, prays, takes care of her husband and entertains him daily with the various antics that have earned her the name, "Lucy - With a tan!" Keep in touch with Bedelia via the web: Website: bedeliasbuzz.com