There are few sports that are able to tell stories as well as horse racing. Moments that could be deemed unthinkable often happen on the track, which leads to the stories being retold for generations.
While films about the sport are one of the most common ways for newcomers to racing to find out about legends of yesteryear, for some, the best way to get a rounded experience of what it would have felt like to be there for a memorable day at the track is through books.
Fortunately, there are no shortage of titles for horse racing fans to enjoy, with some focusing on certain horses, while others taking aim at some of the biggest betting events in history. Betting on the sport remains as prominent as ever in this modern day, with many newcomers often looking for the perfect horse racing bets for the upcoming races.
However, reading about iconic moments in the sport could enhance gamblers knowledge of racing. But, what books are must-reads for fans of the sport?
Seabiscuit: An American Legend
There are few more legendary horses in thoroughbred history than Seabiscuit. Such was his impact on the sport, there have been a number of books released about his career, but few go as in depth as ‘Seabiscuit: An American Legend’.
The thoroughbred was the highest-earning horse in the world up to the 1940s, and famously beaten Triple Crown winner War Admiral in a match race at Pimlico in 1937.
Since retiring from the track, the horse previously trained by Sunny Jim Fitzsimmons has been the focal point of a number of releases, including the Academy Award-nominated film titled ‘Seabiscuit’. Learning more about his legendary career is a must for all lovers of the sport.
A Fine Place to Daydream
One of the best horse racing books for newcomers to the sport is ‘A Fine Place to Daydream’ by Bill Barich. The American author offers a fresh insight into racing, as it is written during the National Hunt campaign in 2003-04.
Barich is a passionate racing fan, but prior to writing the book, he was inexperienced when it came to jumps racing. After moving to Ireland, he is quickly made aware of the popularity of jumps racing and follows the action between October and March.
It offers a romantic look at the racing season from yesteryear, with the author also following some of the most important stories through the season, such as the dominance enjoyed by Moscow Flyer.
Barich is able to retell stories from some of the most recognised trainers in the jumps game, with direct interviews with Willie Mullins, Jessica Harrington, and Michael Hourigan. If you’re new to jumps racing or wish to find out more about the National Hunt action, then it is a must-read.
Tony10
Tony10 by Tony O’Reilly and Declan Lynch is one of the most powerful books about horse racing and gambling. The book focuses on the life of Tony O’Reilly, and retells his story and troubled past with gambling.
It is a book that is incredibly hard to put down once you have started reading, and you will feel sadness and anger at how his story unfolds. O’Reilly was born and raised in an average area of Ireland, and he lived payday to payday.
The middle part of the book is especially engrossing, as it details a man’s life spiralling out of control due to problem gambling and struggles in his social life. Lynch is an incredible writer when it comes to all things horse racing, and special mentions should be given to his book ‘Free Money: A Gambler’s Quest’, which should also feature on any must-read list.
Native Dancer: The Grey Ghost Hero of a Golden Age
John Eisenberg’s ‘Native Dancer: The Grey Ghost Hero of a Golden Age’ is an informative look back at how racing had the power to alter the mood of a nation in the past.
The thoroughbred was one of the most popular in the U.S. during his career, with his bright coat often ensuring that he was the easiest runner to spot on the television. After all, who doesn’t love a grey? However, it could be argued that Native Dancer was the best grey horse of all-time, and his popularity in the U.S. thrust the sport into the spotlight.
On track, his only defeat aged three came in the Kentucky Derby, before he bounced back with wins at the highest level in the Belmont Stakes, Preakness Stakes, and Travers Stakes.
His career would ultimately be cut short during his four-year-old season, but he was still named the American Horse of the Year. His legacy also saw him produce a number of champions, including Raise A Native and dual Classic winner Kauai King.