Sole Female Jockey — from France — Racing in Del Mar’s Opening Weekend

Editor’s Note: After this article was published, Lafaye was reassigned to a race on Sunday at Los Alamitos in Cypress.

The Del Mar racetrack kicks off its summer season starting July 20, and most jockeys in the race are male. However, one jockey stands out above the others.

Camille Lafaye is the only female jockey in the race on Sunday, July 21. Being the only female riding the race added motivation for Lafaye.

“It makes you feel you have the power to change the mentalities around here,” said Lafaye.

Lafaye is originally from France, and she chose to come to the United State to gain more riding experience.

“I always wanted to be a jockey since I’m a kid,” said Lafaye.

Being the only female in the race doesn’t change her goals.

“I’m gonna do the best I can but my goal is to win the race for sure.”

Lafaye has done more racing practice outside of the Del Mar racetrack. She has done work with the GAP Racing, as it is an opportunity to gain more experience.

“I trained for them a few times a week,” said Lafaye. “It (is) an opportunity to work for them because they’ve trained a lot of horses.”

GAP Racing has trained over 50 horses.

Opening day for the Del Mar racetrack is Saturday, July 20. Lafaye will be racing Sunday night.

July 20 has many different events to celebrate the season starting. The Opening Day Party, the Hats Contest and the After Pony Party highlight the weekend.

Sunday, July 21 includes the Del Mar Beer Festival. Tickets can still be purchased for the opening weekend.