Horse racing is like a fine wine that gets better with age. With each passing year, new champions emerge, but the legends of the past never fade away.
If you’re a fan of the sport, then you know the importance of understanding its rich history. And what better way to do that than by reading some of the best biographies of horse racing legends out there?
There is a biography for everyone, whether you want a touching narrative that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside or an exciting one that will have you on the tip of your seat.
Best Horse Biographies to Read
Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand
Hold your horses because if you’ve never heard of Seabiscuit, you’re in for a ride like no other! This spunky little horse didn’t just win races; he won the hearts of a nation during the darkest days of the Great Depression.
And Laura Hillenbrand’s biography of Seabiscuit is a gripping tale that will take you on a journey through his life, from his rags-to-riches story to his legendary racing career, which included Kentucky Derby glory in 1937.
It’s a story that will have you rooting for the underdog and feeling all the emotions – the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and everything in between.
So, get ready to saddle up and experience the remarkable life of Seabiscuit, a true American icon who proved that even the smallest horse can have the biggest heart.
The Horse God Built: The Untold Story of Secretariat, the World’s Greatest Racehorse by Lawrence Scanlan
Secretariat is perhaps the most famous racehorse of all time, and for a good reason. This powerful chestnut stallion dominated the track, setting records that still stand today.
From the starting gate to the finish line, you’ll feel like you’re right there at the racetrack, experiencing the thundering hooves and heart-pounding excitement of one of the greatest racehorses in history.
Written in a captivating style that will keep you hooked from start to finish, this biography of Secretariat is more than just a story about a horse – it’s a tale of perseverance, passion, and the indomitable spirit of a champion.
Shoemaker: America’s Greatest Jockey by Burt and Jane Sugar
Get ready to ride alongside one of the greatest jockeys in horse racing history, Bill Shoemaker. In Burt and Jane Sugar’s biography, you’ll get an inside look at the ups and downs of Shoemaker’s life, from his thrilling victories on the track to his personal struggles off it.
Shoemaker was a true racing legend with over 8,800 wins under his belt. But this book isn’t just about his success – it’s also a story of perseverance, resilience, and the human spirit. Despite facing incredible challenges, Shoemaker never gave up, and his inspiring story will surely leave you feeling motivated and uplifted.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of horse racing or just looking for an incredible human-interest story, this biography of Bill Shoemaker is a must-read.
Ruffian: Burning from the Start by Jane Schwartz
If you’re looking for a biography that will tug at your heartstrings, Ruffian is your horse. This filly’s story is a rollercoaster of emotions, from the excitement of her incredible racing career to the heartbreak of her untimely death.
But even in tragedy, Ruffian’s legacy lives on, inspiring generations of horse lovers and racing enthusiasts. It’s a story that will leave you both moved and inspired and worth adding to your reading list.
The Perfect Horse: The Daring U.S. Mission to Rescue the Priceless Stallions Kidnapped by the Nazis by Elizabeth Letts
This is unlike the biographies we mentioned before, but it doesn’t mean that is any less good.
It’s a story of bravery and valor in the face of danger. “The Perfect Horse” by Elizabeth Letts takes you back to the days of World War II when a group of American soldiers pulled off an incredible feat.
They went behind enemy lines to save some of the world’s most precious horses from the clutches of the Nazis.
This book will leave you with a newfound respect for the bravery of soldiers and the importance of our equine friends.
