Episode 13 - Amazing Ladies of Racing - Jockey Carol Cedeno and Harness Girl Mary McDermott, Plus Thoughts on Race for the Crown!

On this episode of the Horse Whisperer Podcast, we'll hear Randy and the gang's thoughts on the Netflix documentary, Race for the Crown. Then, we are joined by two amazing women from the world of Horse racing!

Carol Cedeno

Born in Puerto Rico and trained at one of the most respected jockey schools in the world, Carol quickly made her mark in U.S. racing, capturing her first win in 2007 and never looking back. She has dominated Delaware Park, earning multiple leading rider titles and even setting a record with seven wins in a single day. With over 1,000 career victories, millions in earnings, and an unmatched work ethic, she is one of the most respected and relentless jockeys in the sport today.

But Carol’s story isn’t just about wins and records. She’s a mother balancing the demanding life of a jockey, a fierce competitor who has overcome challenges, and an inspiration to young riders looking to make their mark. From thrilling victories to the daily grind of the racetrack, today we’re getting an inside look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

Mary McDermott

Mary McDermott was practically born in the barn. Growing up in the heart of New Jersey’s harness racing scene, Mary learned the ropes from her parents—her dad, a seasoned trainer with nearly 1,700 career wins, and her mom, his right-hand woman in the stable. Horses aren’t just part of Mary’s life—they are her life.

From mucking stalls as a kid to helping manage world-class trotters, Mary has lived and breathed this sport from every angle. She's worked for the prestigious Hambletonian Society, trained and rehabbed top-tier racehorses in Saratoga, and now represents Enviro Equine as a thoroughbred sales rep across the Northeast—all while continuing to work side by side with her dad and keep her own trotter in the family stable.

Mary's unique journey bridges the worlds of harness and flat track racing, and she’s a passionate advocate for building more unity between the two. She’s also the driving force behind creative events like the Beckwith vs. Prat charity match race at Saratoga Harness, which brought fans and horsemen together for a great cause.