Donald D. Smith, a longtime jockey based in the MId-Atlantic region and winner of more than 1,500 races, died Oct. 17 at the age of 69.
Known as D.D. to friends and family, Smith began his career in the early 1960s and retired in 1989. He rode 15,612 horses and finished with 1,505 victories, with more than $4 million in total purses earned by his mounts. He rode predominantly at Penn National Race Course, Charles Town Races, Laurel Park, and Pimlico Race Course.
"D.D. was a close friend of mine and a great person to be around," said Arnie Iliescu, Penn National's all-time leading jockey. "I have the fondest memories of our time together at Penn National, and he will be sorely missed."
At the conclusion of his riding career, Smith worked as a goldsmith for more than 20 years. He was the lead goldsmith at Colonial Jewelers in Frederick, Md., for eight years.
Smith is survived by his daughter Dawn Downing, son-in-law Jeff Downing, and his great granddaughter Megan Nicole Downing. A celebration of Smith's life will be held from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 3 on the second floor at Brewer's Alley in Frederick.
