Jockey Ken Hendricks aboard Manitoba-bred Merry’s Jay after winning the 1976 Manitoba Derby
by G. S. Thompson
Ken Hendricks, the all-time leading rider at Assiniboia Downs whose masterful horsemanship spanned five decades, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 15, 2025. He was 75.
Known affectionately as “Hank” throughout the racing community, Hendricks amassed an extraordinary 1,685 wins at Assiniboia Downs during a career that exemplified excellence and longevity in one of sports’ most demanding professions. His overall career statistics tell the story of a consummate professional: 2,385 wins, 2,078 second-place finishes, and 1,982 third-place finishes from 15,013 starts, with total purse earnings of $9,467,200.
Born on June 22, 1949, in Prince George, British Columbia, to Jock and Queenie Hendricks, Ken’s journey to racing greatness began when his father purchased a farm near the Alberta/B.C. border. There, noted Alberta horseman Don Gilkyson recognized young Hendricks’ natural talent for riding. His first victory on a recognized track came in the fall of 1968 at Lethbridge, aboard Second Fleet for trainer Keith Trenholm.
Hendricks quickly established himself as the premier rider at Assiniboia Downs, becoming the first jockey at the track to ride 100 winners in a single season in 1975, highlighted by winning the first five races on a card on July 12.
The leading rider at the Downs in 1974 and 1975, Hendricks won many of the most prestigious races at Assiniboia Downs multiple times, most notably two Manitoba Derby victories (1976 with Merry’s Jay and 1995 with Langara Island) and an amazing seven Gold Cups. His partnership with horses like Chilcotin Blaze, Pete’s Surprise, and Deputy Country produced numerous track records and memorable victories.
Trainer Don Gray once noted that Hendricks was his go-to rider when the “real money was on the line,” highlighting the jockey’s reputation as a clutch performer in the track’s biggest races. This reliability and consistency made him one of the most sought-after riders at Assiniboia Downs during his career.
Hendricks’ final victory at Assiniboia Downs came aboard Accidental Magic on September 22, 2007, a fitting end to a career marked by excellence and durability. Beyond his statistical achievements, Hendricks was known for his quiet professionalism and dedication to the sport.
Hendricks rode in 34 meets at Assiniboia Downs, setting an all-time win record of 1,685, a testament to his sustained excellence and a mark that will never be broken. After retiring, he returned to his British Columbia roots, where he spent his final years.
Our sincere condolences to Ken’s family and his many friends.
Note: Thank you to ASD historian Bob Gates for his research on the career of Ken Hendricks.
Ken Hendricks aboard Gladiatore ll after setting a new track record at Assiniboia Downs on July 7, 1972.