Clare Lindop set to retire in May

Celebrating our ambassador – a trailblazer for women in sport

Recognised as one of the most accomplished female jockeys of all time, our ambassador Clare Lindop is set to retire in May, following an incredible 23-year career in competitive racing.

A trailblazer for women in the sport of competitive racing, Clare has claimed multiple South Australian jockey premierships, and more than 1400 winners across her illustrious career. Clare was also the first Australian female to ever ride in the famed Melbourne Cup, where she rode ‘Debben’ for Leon McDonald in 2003.

Known for her courage on the field, it has been Clare’s work off the field, in particular her support as an ambassador of our cause, that has impressed us the most!

All of us here at Little Heroes Foundation have loved having Clare as part of our team, where she has attended our events, met our supporters and seen first-hand the work that we have done, and continue to do for seriously ill children in SA.

Upon hearing the news of Clare’s upcoming retirement, Founding Chairman Chris McDermott highlighted the contribution Clare has made to her sport and the SA sporting community as something she should be incredibly proud of.

“What a career Clare has had. From becoming the first woman to ride in the Melbourne Cup, to claiming over 1400 wins in a sport typically dominated by men – she is, and always will be, a champion of the racing industry.

“Since joining as an ambassador in 2017, Clare has been a great source of inspiration to all the children we support ! On behalf of them and all the team, I would like to wish Clare and her partner Damien the very best for the next exciting chapter.

“We also look forward to seeing Clare go out on a high note this May at the Adelaide Festival of Racing!”