The Maryland racing community will come together in January to celebrate the life and legacy of Rodney Jenkins, a beloved trainer and equestrian who left an indelible mark on Maryland racing. Jenkins, a native of Middleburg, Va., passed away Dec. 5 at the age of 80. A memorial service is scheduled for noon Jan. 7 on the second floor of the clubhouse at Laurel Park.
Spanning a career from 1991 to 2024, Jenkins secured 941 wins on the flat, earning more than $24.8 million. Before transitioning to Thoroughbred racing, Jenkins achieved legendary status in show jumping, retiring in 1989 with the most Grand Prix wins of any rider. His impressive accomplishments included two silver medals at the 1987 Pan American Games and induction into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 1999.
A self-taught equestrian, Jenkins was renowned for his natural instinct and deep connection with horses. In a tribute video for his induction into the Washington International Horse Show Hall of Fame, Jenkins emphasized the importance of understanding a horse’s mindset: “Instinct of man to horse is very important. The most important attribute any rider can have is knowing what their horse is thinking before he thinks it.”
In Thoroughbred racing, Jenkins trained numerous top runners, including Cordmaker , a Hillwood Stable-owned Maryland-bred who earned more than $1 million during his career. Known for his consistency, Cordmaker won 14 races, including the 2022 General George Stakes (G3), and was crowned the overall champion of the 2022 MATCH Series. Other standout horses in Jenkins’ barn included Maryland turf champion Phlash Phelps, Shimmering Aspen, Bandbox , and grade 3 winner Running Tide.
Ellen Charles, owner of Hillwood Stable, reflected on Jenkins’ impact: “He was a wonderful trainer and a very good friend. His horses were beautifully cared for, and his barn was always in order. Rodney had a great sense of humor and a real dedication to his horses and staff.”
Jenkins’ assistant trainer, Eveline Kjelstrup, who worked alongside him for nearly 25 years, praised his commitment to horse welfare and staff loyalty. “Rodney always gave credit to his horses and did right by them. We were retiring horses responsibly long before aftercare became a widespread practice,” she said. Kjelstrup also recalled Jenkins’ quiet yet impactful actions, such as standing up for his employees and handling challenges with grace and humility.
Jockey Victor Carrasco, who regularly rode Cordmaker, shared his admiration: “Mr. J cared for his horses like they were his kids, but what stood out the most was his humanity. He always treated me like family. Riding for him and being part of his operation was a blessing.”
Jenkins’ influence extended beyond racing. His wife, Unjin, an accomplished equestrian and painter, contributed her talents to the community, while Jenkins often volunteered to judge horse shows at Pimlico Race Course. Longtime Maryland Jockey Club track photographer Jim McCue described Jenkins as “a true gentleman and a good friend.”
The Maryland racing community will forever remember Rodney Jenkins for his dedication to his craft, his kindness to people and horses alike, and his lasting contributions to the sport.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
