Dr. Fager summary

Early Life and Racing Career

In the book Dr. Fager by Steve Haskin, we are introduced to the extraordinary racehorse, Dr. Fager. Born in 1964, Dr. Fager was a chestnut Thoroughbred with a white blaze and a penchant for speed. Haskin takes us through Dr. Fager's early life, his training, and the lead-up to his racing career, setting the stage for what would become an unforgettable journey in the world of horse racing.

Dr. Fager made his racing debut in 1966 and immediately caught the attention of the racing world with his impressive speed and stamina. His performances in various races, including the Gotham Stakes and the Withers Stakes, established him as a force to be reckoned with, and he was soon referred to as the 'Greatest Horse in the World' by his trainer, John Nerud.

Record-Breaking Performance

The heart of Dr. Fager delves into the peak of the horse's racing career in 1968. This was the year when Dr. Fager achieved what many consider his most remarkable feat – his world-record-breaking mile run. In the Washington Park Handicap, Dr. Fager carried an unprecedented 134 pounds and still managed to complete the race in under 1:32, a record that remains unbroken to this day.

Following this extraordinary performance, Dr. Fager continued to dominate the racing scene, winning the Vosburgh Handicap, the Californian Stakes, and the Hawthorne Gold Cup Handicap, among others. His unparalleled speed and consistency made him a favorite among racing enthusiasts, and his legacy as a record-breaking racehorse was solidified.

Retirement and Legacy

As the book progresses, we witness the end of Dr. Fager's racing career and his retirement to stud duty. Although he sired some successful offspring, none could quite match his own remarkable racing achievements. Haskin explores the bittersweet transition from racing to breeding, a common phase in the lives of exceptional racehorses.

In the final chapters, Haskin reflects on Dr. Fager's enduring legacy. Despite his relatively short racing career, Dr. Fager's record-breaking performances and consistent dominance have ensured his place in horse racing history. His name continues to be revered, and his extraordinary feats are remembered and celebrated by racing enthusiasts around the world.

In Conclusion

In Dr. Fager, Steve Haskin presents a thorough and engaging account of one of the most exceptional racehorses in the history of the sport. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Haskin brings Dr. Fager's racing career to life, allowing readers to experience the thrill of his record-breaking runs and the impact he made on the world of horse racing. In doing so, Haskin pays a fitting tribute to this legendary equine athlete.