This February, Sports Illustrated is celebrating Black History Month by spotlighting a different iconic athlete or group of athletes every day. Today, SI looks back on the legacy of Isaac Murphy.
Isaac Murphy became the jockey with the most Kentucky Derby victories when he crossed the finish line in first in 1891—the third time he had done so in his career.
He held that distinction until 1948, 52 years after his death.
In the 19th century, African-American jockeys were commonplace, with 13 of the 15 horses at the inaugural Kentucky Derby in 1875 mounted by black riders.