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2024 Horse Lover’s Book and Holiday Gift Guide
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A beautiful American Pharoah print by artist Robert Clark and Avalyn Hunter’s “The Kentucky Oaks: 150 Years of Running for the Lilies” are two great gift options this holiday season.
It’s that time of the year again! The holidays are right around the corner, which means gift-giving is once again on our minds. To help you shop for horsey friends and family on your list, America’s Best Racing brings you another edition of the Horsey Book and Holiday Gift Guide, your go-to resource for the best books, gifts, and treasures updated for the 2024 holiday season!
Whether you’re shopping for the racing enthusiast in your life or treating yourself to something special, we’ve curated a collection that celebrates the beauty, passion, and spirit of the Thoroughbred and the sport of horse racing.
From the captivating biographies of legendary racehorses and explorations of the sport’s past to stunning art, accessories, and apparel inspired by our four-legged friends, this guide has something for everyone.
Books
“Jockey Queen: Lillian Jenkinson Holder, Horse Racing’s Fearless Lady,” by Roger Peach
In “Jockey Queen,” Roger Peach tells the story of jockey Lillian Jenkinson Holder, chronicling her remarkable journey from her early life and passion for horses to her attempts to break barriers in the male-dominated sport. Known for her determination, skill, and fearless attitude, Holder faced numerous challenges on the track and off but persevered to build a life in racing on her terms.
Josh Pons’s “Letters from Country Life” is a patient and contemplative account of the origins of Maryland’s oldest Thoroughbred farm, shaped by the vision of Adolphe Pons. The author weaves together personal and historical narratives about his grandfather’s passion for breeding and raising racehorses, his connection to the legendary Man o’ War, and his enduring legacy in the Thoroughbred industry.
“The Kentucky Oaks: 150 Years of Running for the Lilies,” by Avalyn Hunter
“The Kentucky Oaks: 150 Years of Running for the Lilies,” by Avalyn Hunter, is a comprehensive and celebratory history of the Kentucky Oaks, one of racing’s most famous tests for fillies. Spanning its 150 years, Hunter chronicles the evolution of the race, its cultural significance, and the exceptional horses and jockeys who have competed for the coveted lilies. Through thorough research and rich storytelling, “The Kentucky Oaks” is the definitive look at this classic race and its century and a half of great performances and legendary winners.
“Skywatch: Chasing an American Saddlebred Story,” by Emma Hudelson
“Skywatch: Chasing an American Saddlebred Story,” by Emma Hudelson, is both a memoir of what horses can do for the soul and an engaging exploration of the world of American Saddlebred horses through the story of the legendary stallion Skywatch. Hudelson dives into the rich history and culture of the Saddlebred horse while tracing this famed champion’s rise to fame. She captures the beauty of the breed and the thrill of competition while contemplating the deep connection between horse and rider and what that relationship means to any horseperson’s soul.
“What Horses Do After Racing: The Story of Good Carma,” by Jay Privman
“What Horses Do After Racing: The Story of Good Carma,” by Jay Privman, tells the heartwarming and inspiring story of how retired racehorses transition to new careers and lives after their racing days are over. Focusing on Good Carma and a stable of other racehorses, Privman focuses on a racehorse’s potential second career, from show jumping to therapy work to life as beloved companions. The book explores what goes into giving racehorses a fulfilling life post-racing, offering an insightful look into equine care and advocacy.
“Kentucky Derby 150: The Official History of the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”
“Kentucky Derby 150: The Official History of the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” is a commemorative and comprehensive look at the 150-year history of the Kentucky Derby captured in a gorgeous coffee table book. Replete with gorgeous photos, the book celebrates the Derby’s enduring legacy through a recounting of its winners and the moments that made them.
“The History of the Kentucky Derby in 75 Objects,” by Kentucky Derby Museum and Jessica K. Whitehead
“The History of the Kentucky Derby in 75 Objects” presents a unique exploration of the Kentucky Derby’s 150 years through 75 significant objects. Each item, from jockey silks and trophies to photographs and memorabilia, represents a key moment, figure, or tradition in the history of the run for the roses. The book combines these objects with Whitehead’s insightful deep dive into the race’s past to create a visually rich and informative look at this iconic race.
“Thoroughbred Nation: Making America at the Racetrack, 1791-1900,” by Natalie A. Zacek
Natalie Zacek’s “Thoroughbred Nation: Making America at the Racetrack, 1791-1900” examines the role horse racing played in shaping and reflecting American society and culture during the 19th century. Zacek delves into the lives of key figures in the racing world, the establishment of racetracks, and the influence of the sport on American identity. Her analysis of how race, class, and regionalism intersect in this era highlights how racing not only entertained but also contributed to the construction of a national identity, making it an essential part of American history.
“Races, Games, and Olympic Dreams: A Sportscaster’s Life,” by Tom Hammond and Mark Story
“Races, Games, and Olympic Dreams: A Sportscaster’s Life” by Tom Hammond and Mark Story, chronicles the career of renowned sportscaster Tom Hammond. The book takes readers behind the scenes of the Kentucky native’s experiences covering major sporting events, including the Kentucky Derby, the Olympics, and more. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Hammond shares his passion for sports, the challenges he faced, and the memorable moments that shaped his journey in broadcasting.
Perennial Favorites
Amie’s Horse Racing Gifts: The question is not what does Amie Martinez make, but what doesn’t she make? From holiday ornaments to signs to pillows to cosmetic bags, this artisan can personalize just about anything with your favorite horses’ names, silks, and more. Gift your favorite racing fan (or yourself) a special something from Amie and make this holiday season the best yet.
Old Smoke Clothing Co.: Hoodies, T-shirts, ties, button-downs, oh my! Old Smoke has everything you need to look good at the racetrack. Grab a T-shirt for those dark day get-togethers or a custom-lined blazer for your Derby day experience. From Secretariat to Thorpedo Anna, share your love for the sport while also raising your sartorial game with a gift from Old Smoke.
Get Your Shop On
Celebrate this year’s Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar with apparel, accessories, and more for you and your home. The Breeders’ Cup shop has everything from high-end home décor like lamps and glassware to gorgeous scarves and cozy hoodies for you and the horse lover in your life.
The Gift Shop at the National Museum of Racing
Grab a copy of Brien Bouyea’s and Michael Veitch’s gorgeous book on the Travers Stakes or an autographed copy of Greg Montgomery’s poster celebrating Arcangelo’s 2023 Travers victory, signed by trainer Jena Antonucci and jockey Javier Castellano. The Museum’s store has everything from an adorable knit pompom beanie to a 40 oz. insulated tumbler to a jockey silks coffee mug, perfect stocking stuffers for the racing fans in your lives.
Round out your celebration of the 150th Kentucky Derby with something special from the Kentucky Derby Museum store. Buy your favorite fan the silks pins for their Derby winners or a matted, signed photo of Mystik Dan eking out his Derby victory over Sierra Leone and Forever Young. Celebrate Derby day every day with a T-shirt, hat, or even a panoramic poster of Churchill Downs.
A must-visit for any trip to Saratoga, Impressions of Saratoga has what you need for that special racing fan (or yourself!) this holiday season. Looking for a cozy Saratoga hoodie for these colder months? Impressions has a few. Want a special Saratoga connection encapsulated in jewelry? They have necklaces and earrings made from Saratoga Springs water bottles. Visit Marianne, Maddy, and the whole gang in person or online and find something Saratoga to gift this year.
No better way to celebrate your favorite racehorse than displaying a photo of them in your home and Adam Coglianese and the team at Bob Coglianese Photos have what you need. From Secretariat to Ruffian, Affirmed to American Pharoah, find images of past champions and more recent stars in the Coglianese galleries. The perfect gift for any racing fan!
Clark’s equine artwork captures the beauty of the Thoroughbred, making his pieces an exceptional holiday gift for racing fans. His detailed and dynamic oil paintings often feature legendary horses like Cody’s Wish, Justify, and American Pharoah, capturing their iconic wins in gorgeous full-color portraits. A calendar or a giclee print will make the perfect gift for you and your favorite racing fan any time of the year.
Greg Montgomery Art: Collections
The Travers Stakes has become one of those must-see races on our calendar, a chance to celebrate the best that the 3-year-old division has to offer. Greg Montgomery’s artwork captures the essence of the “Mid-Summer Derby” experience, each poster highlighting another angle of this annual tradition. Grab his gorgeous celebration of Arrogate’s record-breaking 2016 run or a poster honoring Saratoga legends like Secretariat, Man o’ War, and Go for Wand and make the racing fan in your life smile this holiday season.
Lesley Baumann, founder of Alizarin Chestnut, creates dynamic and vibrant equine art for your home and barn. A custom stall nameplate for your heart horse or a portrait of your equine buddy would make a thoughtful and unique holiday gift for any horse lover. With a distinctive style that combines detail and whimsy, Baumann’s pieces bring warmth and joy to any home. Explore her collections to find a memorable gift for your favorite horsey person this holiday season.
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