Denim Tears is unveiling its latest collection, T.G.B.J. (The Great Black Jockeys), a tribute to the often overlooked African American pioneers in the equestrian sports world. Through this collection, Denim Tears delves deep into the rich, yet forgotten, history of Black jockeys who once dominated the Kentucky Derby, highlighting their remarkable contributions and the subsequent erasure of their legacies. By bringing these stories to the forefront, Denim Tears honors the role of African Americans in shaping the early days of this iconic American sport, reviving narratives that deserve recognition.
The Kentucky Derby’s inaugural race in 1875 saw significant participation from Black jockeys, who went on to win over half of the derbies in the first three decades. Despite their early success and the integral role they played in popularizing horse racing, these athletes faced growing racial tensions that eventually pushed them out of the sport. The T.G.B.J. collection seeks to celebrate the legacy of these forgotten jockeys, whose skills and achievements laid the groundwork for what the Kentucky Derby has become today.
Denim Tears’ T.G.B.J. collection not only recalls historical figures but also draws attention to modern spaces where the spirit of African American horse riding lives on. The campaign highlights the Aqueduct Racetrack in Jamaica, Queens, and the City Island Stables / Bronx Equestrian Center, both of which continue to nurture the relationship between African Americans and equestrian culture.
A key feature of the 25-piece collection is its colorful and bold designs, inspired by the vibrant aesthetic of the Kentucky Derby. The collection includes statement pieces such as a button-down shirt with abstract prints that pay homage to the racing silks worn by the first 11 Black jockeys in the Derby’s history. Each design element is honors these athletes, with names like Oliver Lewis, Isaac Murphy, and Jimmy Winkfield woven into the collection.
Denim Tears has priced the T.G.B.J. collection between $60 and $395, making it accessible while maintaining a sense of exclusivity. The launch of the T.G.B.J. collection happened on Friday, August 30th, with pieces available online at denimtears.com and in-store at Africa Diaspora Goods, located at 176 Spring St. Take a closer look at the campaign in the Gallery below:
