Winnipeg/Assiniboia Downs

Joan arrived in Winnipeg in 1971 and started as a hot-walker and groom. She raced the Powder Puff Derby (placing second only to her best friend Karen Chysyk), then applied for her apprentice jockey license which she got in 1972. From then on, there was no stopping Joan who was supported by the other jockeys both through encouragement and by pushing her hard to strive to reach her remarkable potential. By racing with world class jockeys at Assiniboia and the Winnipeg race trackers this helped mold Joan into the jockey she would become.

Click on the photo caption below each picture and you will to be taken to that photo’s “home” page where you can leave your stories and anecdotes in the reply/comment section. We strongly encourage you help us by sharing any memories you have surrounding the snapshot. Your input is invaluable!

We appreciate all the help and perspectives we can gather from you in preparation for the upcoming book of Joan’s life and of course, if you prefer to send us a private message or email, we would love to hear from you too.

thejoanphippsstory@hotmail.com