Who Is Bill Shoemaker? Age, Biography and Wiki
Bill Shoemaker was born on August 19, 1931, in Fabens, Texas, USA. Renowned as one of the greatest jockeys in the sport’s history, Shoemaker's remarkable career spanned over three decades, during which he won an astounding 8,833 races. He secured the title of a champion jockey multiple times and was recognized for his skill and finesse in horse racing. Shoemaker passed away on October 12, 2003, but his legacy remains in the annals of sports history.
| Occupation | Sports |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1931 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Fabens, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 12 October, 2003 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Bill Shoemaker's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Bill Shoemaker stood at approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and maintained a competitive weight range typical for jockeys, generally around 110 pounds (50 kg). His compact physique enabled him to be agile and swift, which contributed to his success on the racetrack.
Shoemaker was involved in a solo drunk-driving car crash on April 8, 1991, in San Dimas, California, when he rolled over the Ford Bronco II he was driving. The accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, and he thereafter used a wheelchair.
Even though a blood sample drawn 98 minutes after he entered the hospital showed his blood-alcohol at .13, above California's legal limit of .08, Shoemaker did not accept blame for the crash.
He sued the California Department of Transportation for not installing guard rails along the highway and Ford Motor Company for faulty vehicle design (as the Bronco II was infamous for it higher rollover risk). Ford settled with Shoemaker for $1,000,000.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Bill Shoemaker had a complex personal life. He was married three times. His first marriage was to a woman named Lillian, lasting from 1951 to 1954. He then married his second wife, a model named Kiki, in 1963, which also ended in divorce. His final marriage to Cathy was in 1986, and the couple remained together until his passing. As of 2025, there are no publicly known details regarding any ongoing romantic relationships, reflective of his focus on career and family commitments.
At the age of 19, he was making so much money (as much as $2,500 each week) the Los Angeles Superior Court appointed attorney Horace Hahn as his guardian, with the consent of his parents.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Bill Shoemaker’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million. His extensive earnings were derived not only from his race winnings but also from endorsements and various business ventures. His fame and talent in the horse racing industry enabled him to secure lucrative contracts and sponsorships.
He continued to train racehorses until his retirement on November 2, 1997. His final stats as a trainer were 90 wins from 714 starters and earnings of $3.7 million.
Career, Business and Investments
Bill Shoemaker's career in horse racing is illustrious; he was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1958. Beyond his accomplishments on the track, Shoemaker was involved in various business and investment ventures, including ownership in thoroughbred horse racing. His strategic investments and business acumen allowed him to maintain and grow his wealth beyond his jockey career. Shoemaker also served as a mentor to younger jockeys, sharing his expertise and insights into the industry.
Shoemaker's career as a jockey began in his teenage years, with his first professional ride on March 19, 1949. The first of his eventual 8,833 career victories came a month later, on April 20, aboard Shafter V, at Golden Gate Fields in Albany, California. In 1951, he won the George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award.
Social Network
Despite Bill Shoemaker's passing in 2003, his legacy continues in various social networks and horse racing communities. Fan pages celebrate his incredible achievements, and his contributions to the sport are honored through various racing events and tributes. While not personally active on social media, his influence remains alive through fan interactions and historical discussions online.
Education
Bill Shoemaker's formal education consisted of a high school diploma from the local high school in Fabens. His education was steeped more in practical experience than traditional academic settings, as he began his career in horse racing at a young age. His upbringing around horses contributed significantly to his natural talent and understanding of the sport.
At 38 oz, Shoemaker was so small at birth that he was not expected to survive the night. Put in a shoebox on the oven to stay warm, he survived, but remained small, growing to 4 ft and weighing 91 lb. His diminutive size proved an asset in thoroughbred horse racing, of which he went on to become a giant, despite dropping out of El Monte High School in El Monte, California.
Conclusion
Bill Shoemaker's legendary status in horse racing continues to inspire both fans and aspiring jockeys alike in 2025. With an impressive career, enduring legacy, and a life story that highlights dedication and passion, he remains a pivotal figure in American sports history.
