The Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award committee has finalized the short list for its 2026 competition, selecting three nonfiction titles that explore the past, present, and future of Thoroughbred racing. These finalists represent diverse approaches to equine literature, ranging from historical biographies of 19th-century breeders to critical investigations into current animal welfare standards.
Historical Roots and Breeding Legacies
Gary A. O'Dell leads the group with his work, "Reinventing the American Thoroughbred: The Arabian Adventures of Alexander Keene Richards." A professor emeritus from Morehead State University, O'Dell spent years tracing the life of a pre-Civil War breeder who famously operated Blue Grass Park. The book details Richards' obsession with importing Arabian bloodstock to Kentucky to improve the speed and stamina of American racehorses. It functions as both a travelogue and a scholarly look at the risks taken by early breeders.
Another finalist is "The Racetracks of America: From the Pre-Civil War Days to the 21st Century." Edited by Brien Bouyea, this volume relies on contributions from 35 veteran turf writers. It serves as an archive for the physical and social history of American horse racing. The book includes thousands of images and historical records, acting as a reference for fans and historians interested in the evolution of the sport's venues.
Modern Challenges and Industry Accountability
Rounding out the selections is "Death of a Racehorse: An American Story" by CNN correspondent Katie Bo Lillis. Lillis draws upon her background in the Virginia horse industry to examine the systemic problems facing modern racing. She focuses on recent scandals, navigating through evidence gathered at laboratories and racetrack boardrooms. While the subject matter is difficult, the narrative remains grounded in a desire for reform and better protection for horses.
Selection Process and Upcoming Recognition
The panel judging these entries consists of experts with significant experience in sports media. The group includes Caton Bredar of TVG/FanDuel, former Washington Post editor Kay Coyte, historian Maryjean Wall, and author Josh Pons, who won the award in 2024 for his own work. These judges selected the three titles based on their depth of research and contribution to the canon of racing literature.
Castleton Lyons will host a reception for the finalists on Nov. 4, 2026, at the Ryan family farm located in Lexington, Ky. The event will feature insights from Mark Simon, the former editor of Thoroughbred Times, and remarks from Caton Bredar. This gathering brings together industry figures to acknowledge the importance of documenting the history and realities of the Thoroughbred sport. Readers can anticipate the announcement of the winner during these proceedings, which highlights the continued interest in high-quality nonfiction within the equestrian community.