On the 25 August 1804, Mrs. Alicia Thornton, became the first female jockey in an unusual race over a four-mile course at the Knavesmire, York. Riding side-saddle, as a woman of virtue and breeding would have done in her day, against her brother-in-law Captain Flint.

Alicia rose to notoriety in the early 1800’s when she married Colonel Thornton, of Thornville Royal in Yorkshire, not far from the present York racecourse. The marriage was a union of convenience, for she was described at the time as having a personality that left near-catastrophe in her wake.

In the early 1800’s it must have seemed preposterous to bet on a woman to win a race against a man, but her husband Colonel Thornton wagered the sum of 500 guineas, which would not have been insignificant at the start of the 19 century. It is said the match was the talk of the town, if not the country, with nearly 100,000 people making their way to York to place their bets and watch the race over the course in the thrilling match.

Alicia rode in a dress that was considered tasteful and practical, with a silk blouse and jockey cap. She led the race for three miles until her horse Eclipse broke down and she had to pull up, leaving Captain Flint to reap the prize money.

Although Mrs. Thornton lost the race, she ‘displayed great ability in the management of her horse and kept the lead nearly the whole race’. And her striking attire, spirited acceptance of the wager, skill and courage, coupled with her admirable good humour in defeat, made her a favourite of the crowd and long-celebrated even after the race was concluded.

Alicia demanded a re-match, but her husband Colonel Thornton wouldn’t settle his account over the first race, and Flint declined the invitation. As time went by, and the debt remained unpaid, Flint attacked Thornton with a horse-whip and as a result ended up in jail.

At the time horse racing was not the only draw at Knavesmire which was infamous for the gallows above the racecourse, and the hangings, drawing and quartering, as much part of the racing experience as cock-fights and general scandalous behaviour.

Alicia’s adventures on the turf continued when she challenged professional jockey Frank Buckle to a match across the Knavesmire. Alicia’s horse carried 9st 6lbs, whereas Buckle’s was burdened with 4-stone more. Alicia won by a neck, and claimed her reputation as a horsewoman of distinction.

25 August, 2019