An extraordinary time-hopping, historical novel; a compelling biography of potential greatness and a life cut short; and a powerful, category-bending work of fiction told as the oral history of a hard-luck horsewoman. Horse, by Geraldine Brooks, Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew's First Champion, by Mary Perdue, and Kick The Latch, by Kathryn Scanlan are the three finalists for the 17th Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award, decided upon by a panel of racing and literary judges.
“The 2022 nominees included a refreshing group of voices new to this Book Award, including the three finalists,” lead judge Kay Coyte noted. “The works from these women were outstanding.”
Founded in 2006 by the late Dr. Ryan, the award seeks to honor the best in long-form writing related to horse racing. Its $10,000 prize remains among the largest in the literary world, regardless of category. Following Dr. Ryan's 2007 passing, this celebration of racing's finest literature has been carried on by his son, Shane, current president of the family's Castleton Lyons farm near Lexington.
In addition to the $10,000 winner's check, two runners-up will each receive $1,000. In addition, all three finalists will take home Tipperary Irish crystal trophies in the form of Castleton Lyons' iconic fieldstone tower. The winner is scheduled to be announced November 9.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
