As the COVID-19 pandemic swept through the province of Ontario in 2020, it hit the professional sports world with a cruel reality. Spectators could not be present, putting events, millions of dollars, and jobs in jeopardy. Public health restrictions particularly impacted the horse racing industry to stop the spread of this awful virus. For horse racing grooms, trainers, jockeys, racetrack officials, and owners, the onset of COVID-19 brought in a frustrating period of uncertainty and, for many who rely on the industry, a feeling of despair.
Out of this darkness lay a story of perseverance and triumph, both human and equine. Jennifer Morrison's Run with a Mighty Heart is just that. The book explains how a one-eyed horse overcame his visual impairment to win Canada's most heralded race. Mighty Heart provided a win to ownership connections beset by tragedies, a company making a herculean effort to have the show go on, and to thousands of fans around the country who needed encouragement during a time when there wasn't much to celebrate
It also shines a light on how the Woodbine thoroughbred racing community came together to fight back against the pandemic and continue the grand tradition of hosting the historic Queen's Plate against the toughest of odds during a pandemic. But, as they would say in racing parlance, pulling it all off was a 99-1 long shot.
Likewise, Morrison's splendid book is an account of how some human beings who endure crushing personal losses might ultimately find luck and triumph if they choose to keep living. For example, Mighty Heart's owner Larry Cordes suffered through tragedy when his wife, daughter, and son-in-law succumbed to cancer and later setbacks as a Thoroughbred owner when horses were injured or died before they could reach their potential.
While it may be her first book, Morrison's deep experience as a sports reporter and her knowledge of the people and players who make Woodbine successful shines through the narrative. Decades of research, conversations, handicapping races and understanding the challenges facing horses and the people who care for them inform this captivating story. In addition, the book contains exciting accounts and insights from Mighty Heart's trainer, Hall of Famer Josie Carroll and her supporting cast on the horse's rise from an awkward beginning to the apogee of Canadian racing.
Run with a Mighty Heart also serves as a tribute to the people from all walks of life who get up while most of the population sleeps to provide care for horses. To be sure, there is a lot that goes into the preparation for race day. Horse racing might be the “Sport of Kings,” but the people behind it who make a day at the track an enjoyable one for the betters, fans, and enthusiasts come from all social classes. Still, all share a joint determination, attention to detail, and a sense of purpose. It's about the horses, but everyone matters- from hot walker to groom, trainer to the owner and the staff, officials and executives at the racetrack.
Morrison doesn't forget about the horses. Documenting Mighty Heart's rise, Morrison carefully outlines the various physical and health curveballs thrown at these majestic but fragile creatures. For example, a horse may have excellent breeding, but exposure to parasites can make them sick, or a bout of colic could end their life. Likewise, Mighty Heart's frolicking in the paddock with other horses caused the young colt to lose an eye. These athletes work hard day in and day out, and their journey is often as complicated and uncertain as the road travelled by those who care for them.
Run with a Mighty Heart should be required reading for all Thoroughbred horse racing fans. It is an uplifting tale of our capacity to endure the most complex challenges life throws at us to continue our way of life, great traditions, and recreational pursuits. Run with a Mighty Heart is also a lively story of resilience, endurance, and hope. This book tells a story a lot of people need right now.
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