Man o' War

Man o’ War has been acclaimed as the greatest racehorse of all time, and nearly three-quarters of a century after his death his legend continues to grow. In Man o’ War, veteran racing historian Edward L. Bowen recounts the life and times of “Big Red.”

Bowen traces not only Man o’ War’s life but also those of the people connected to him—his breeder, August Belmont II; his trainer, Louis Feustel; and his famed owner, Samuel D. Riddle—weaving their stories into that of the great horse.

Man o’ War became the greatest sports hero of his era, mentioned with the same reverence as Babe Ruth, Jack Dempsey, and Red Grange. Man o’ War’s legend began at age two when he won nine of ten starts. Due to his great popularity, his only loss was surrounded by rumor and intrigue. Man o’ War never knew defeat again. He dominated his rivals at every turn, even winning one race by a recorded 100 lengths.

Retired to stud in Kentucky, Man o’ War welcomed tens of thousands of fans to Faraway Farms where faithful groom Will Harbut would regale visitors with tales of Man o’ War’s exploits. The sons and daughters of Man o’ War—including Triple Crown winner War Admiral—and their descendants carry on his legend in the Thoroughbred breed today.

This edition includes a new afterword by the author.