Meet Kevin Krigger, The African American Jockey That Could Win the Kentucky Derby in Over 100 Years

History could be made at the 2013 Kentucky Derby this Saturday, as a long-standing record is broken. Kevin Krigger, 29, riding the horse Goldencents hopes to be the second African American to win the Kentucky Derby in over 100 years.

The last time an African American won the Kentucky Derby was in 1902. Back then Jimmy Winkfield won the Kentucky Derby riding His Eminence. Winkfield would go on to win over 2,500 races during his 35-year career.

In the early history of the Kentucky Derby African American frequently won the race, with 15 of the first 28 races being won by an African American jockey. However the Kentucky Derby was segregated in 1896 and even after desegregation in the 20th century no African-American jockey has won since Winkfield in 1902.

The 29-year-old Krigger was born in in the Virgin Islands. Krigger has been riding since he was five and has always been fascinated by the sport. Kriger’s fascination with the Derby was early on his life as he told the Los Angeles Times,

“I think I got my first saddle when I was 13. So, when it was time for the Kentucky Derby, I'd put it up on the couch at home, in front of the TV set, and I'd ride the race."

Krigger and his horse Goldencents have been placed at 6-1 odds for winning. As of this post, over $600,000 has been bet on him.

The Kentucky Derby is this Saturday, with post time at 6:24 P.M. EDT. Coverage Begins at 4:00 P.M. EDT on NBC, although earlier coverage can be found on NBC Sports Network.