Man o' War

Man o' War ~ 1917 - 1947

A large reddish-colored horse, Man o"War is considered by the majority of the horse racing fans as being the greatest race horse that ever run. He was sired by "Fairplay" out of "Mahubah". He was a large horse, typically a dominating effect when compared to the size of the other American racehorses. He was easily recognized, not only by his size but his tremendously long strides when running. He raced only as a two-year old and a three-year old, but in this short time (1919 - 1920) he would win 20 out of his 21 races while setting five world records. His one loss occurred in 1919 to a horse by the name of "Upset", he went on to run second in that controversial race. He was retired and became one of the most renowned stallions in the history of American Thoroughbred racing.

War Admiral ~ 1934 - 1959

"War Admiral" was foaled in 1934, his sire was "Man o' War" out of a mare by the name of "Brushup". He inherited his darker color of brown from his mother, unlike his father who was reddish in color. He was also smaller than his father. However, his temperament and desire to run matched that personality trait of his father. He raced as a two year old, three year old and four year old. During the period of time from 1936 to 1938 he would win twelve major races. Half of those would occur as a four year old. In total, he would have a record of 23 wins against 3 losses. Although, one of the greats in horse racing, he will always be remembered for the race he did not win.

"RACE OF THE CENTURY"

Sea Biscuit ~ 1933 - 1947
"Red" Pollard, Jockey ~ 1909 - 1981

"Sea Biscuit" was born on May 23, 1933. His sire was "Hard Tack", a half brother of "War Admiral" and the grandson of Man o' War. His dam was "Swing On". "Sea Biscuit" did not develop into a good race horse as a young horse, most breeders considered him to small and to lazy. He was used primarily to develop other race horses that demonstrated potential to be champions. With time, "Sea Biscuit" was sold to a car dealer in California that was just entering the race horse business. The Academy Award nominated movie, "Sea Biscuit" portrayed his life and development as a race horse. As in most movies, the director took a few liberties with minor details in the filming but for the most part it is factual portrayal of his story. "Sea Biscuit" became the hope for millions of Americans during the Great Depression era. "Sea Biscuit" would win ten major races between 1937 and 1940. His greatest race would occur on November 1, 1938 when he would go head to head with "War Admiral" and win it handily. "War Admiral" had won six major races in 1938 while "Sea Biscuit" had won seven major races. In 1938, "Sea Biscuit" would win the coveted title of "U.S. Horse of the Year. An honor that was never bestowed on "War Admiral". "Sea Biscuit" would pass away on May 17, 1947, his grandfather, "Man o' War" would pass away six months later.

In 1958, "Sea Biscuit and "War Admiral" were inducted into United States Racing Hall of Fame.

If you have not seen the movie, "Sea Biscuit", I would strongly recommend it. It is not only a very good movie, it is also a very good American History lesson of the this era and the hardships of the Great Depression.