Man O' War

By Roger L. Treat, Page Cooper, Page Cooper And Roger L. Treat

Book Overview

A Biography of the Greatest Racehorse in History
Man O' War, or "Big Red" as he was affectionately called, was the greatest racehorse that ever lived. In 1919 and 1920, he won 20 of 21 starts and set eight records, including three world records, while conceding as much as 30 pounds to his rivals and still beating them by large margins. His time in the Belmont Stakes stood for an incredible 50 years. Man O' War's last contest, and greatest achievement, was a match race against Sir Barton, the first Triple Crown winner, where he vanquished the Canadian horse by seven lengths. He was sire to War Admiral, Crusader, and Battleship, and was grandsire to Seabiscuit, who perhaps most of all inherited the indomitable spirit and great heart of the champion.

With his distinctive blazing white star on his forehead and deep red coat, Man O' War was a major star in the first half of the twentieth century, and his popularity is credited with reviving the scandal-ridden sport of horseracing. Bought for $5,000 by Pennsylvania horseman Samuel Riddle, Man O' War ended up winning more money than any American horse up to that time. He lost only once, in a controversial race, and was so good that his odds of losing races reached an astronomical 100-1, even though he was heavily handicapped with more weight than any of his challengers. Rather than jeopardize the health of his horse under such enormous weights, Riddle retired him at the age of three. Man O' War lived for 27 more years and sired 379 foals, 61 of which were stakes winners. He became a legend in his lifetime, retired to Kentucky, cared for by his groom, Will Harbut, and visited by millions.

In Man O' War, the classic biography by Page Cooper and Roger L. Treat, Big Red emerges as an unforgettable animal full of personality, good looks, and blazing speed. It is a dramatic story, as in race after race, other stables try to beat the magnificent horse with the tremendous stride and determine just how fast he can really run. Page and Cooper present Man O' War vividly and authentically, as he was seen by those who trained and loved him, and whose hearts rode with him as he raced to victory.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1594160058
• ISBN13: 9781594160059
• Release Date: September 2004
• Publisher: Westholme Publishing
• Length: 248 Pages
• Weight: 0.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Man O' War by Page Cooper, L. Rodger Treat

This is a must read. I read Walter Farley's book on Man O' War as a child and it lite my imagination then, but this book goes much farther and fills in the history of the "Mostest Hoss" with his partentage included as well as the acomplishments of his offspring it makes for very, very, interesting reading. Highly recommend. Great work on history almost lost!! So fascinating to see the pedigree go back to the Godolphin Arabian as well as seeing the lineage being carried on. One must be a horse lover and a lover of history to appreciate.

Amazing Story

This is my favorite race horse of all times. first book I read about him was from the library. I just love this book...very good read.

Highly Recommended

A wonderful book, not the dry statistical information that you could look up online. It gives you a real sense of the political climate, world events and the people and the truly magnificent Man O' War. A warm insight into to his incredible racing ability. "Red" was a happy, intelligent gracious animal. If only humans could take a lesson. What a delight. Highly recommended.

Highly Recommended

This book is clearly the best account of Man O' War written. It reads briskly like a novel, it is full of energy and excitement, and ends with an excellent section detailing Big Red's lineage and performance. As you come to the book's close you will feel sadness when he passes away because the horse raced so well and then went on to live an incredibly long life that you come to know him as a real being, not some sort of aloof creature. Page and Cooper's book is a great tribute to this magnificent animal. For anyone of any age who likes a good story, a good book, and definitely anyone who enjoys horses, this account is sure to become a favorite. One of the best books I've read this year.