Ada Gates

Ada Gates was born into New York high society, with a family history in America dating back to the 1700s. In 1978, she became the first woman licensed as a farrier to shoe thoroughbred racehorses in the United States and Canada, launching a career that took her far from her expected path in life.

In this episode, Ada shares the story of how an unexpected trip West led to her groundbreaking career in the thoroughbred racing industry. She discusses her guest appearances on Late Night with David Letterman, What’s My Line, To Tell the Truth, and The Today Show, as well as her role as farrier liaison for the 1984 Olympic Games and official horseshoe inspector for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade. Ada also talks about her service on the California Thoroughbred Foundation Board of Directors, her 2008 Edward Martin Humanitarian Award from the American Farrier’s Association, her induction into the American Farriers Hall of Fame, her work on the farrier committee for the World Equestrian Games, and her current role as farrier consultant for horse trainer Monty Roberts’ Online University.

This episode matters to SGV viewers and anyone interested in horse racing, equine care, or stories of women breaking into male-dominated professions. Ada’s journey from an unconventional beginning to decades of recognized service in the thoroughbred industry offers a firsthand account of trailblazing in a field with few women, and her recent Trailblazer of the Year Award from Women at Work, Pasadena speaks to her continued impact today.

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