Illustrator Lorin Chasar was surprised to know Black jockeys were involved in the inception of the Kentucky Derby. Writer Sultan Zeshan told her about a series of books he was working on about the history of Black equestrians. She was surprised to learn that many of the Black jockeys were whitewashed from records of the historical race, so much so that people are under the impression that Blacks haven’t been a part of the Derby festivities until recently. Chasar jumped at the opportunity to shine a light on the race’s authentic history and eagerly told Zeshan she would illustrate his series.
“I immediately wanted to be a part of it right away. My love for history, especially Black history, made it a passion project,” she says.
It was her first time illustrating a book, but Chasar says she welcomed the challenge.
“I did extensive research on old photographs and paintings of jockeys and their horses. I read as much as I could about jockeys and their horses. The first derby was in 1875, [and] things looked very different, so I [deeply studied] the style of clothing,” Chasar explains.
“Zeshan and I collaborated a lot because it was his vision. While writing, everyone envisions the story in their mind. I presented the initial sketches, and together, we would refine the ideas so that we were in alignment,” Chasar says.
The two worked nonstop on Legendary Equestrians and Jockey Young’Uns creating two beautiful books for children that illustrate the history African Americans contributed to the Kentucky Derby.
The projects afforded Chasar some amazing memories in Louisville, Kentucky, at Churchhill Downs, home of the Derby.
“My fondest memories of this project [are] going to Kentucky and seeing the place [where] these men lived and raced their horses. We went to the 2023 Kentucky Derby and even went to their gravesites. Some of the graves were still unmarked, which is heartbreaking. We visited the farms where they lived and trained their horses,” Chasar says.
The 2024 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
95 Responses
This is amazing! Wonderfully crafted illustrations that give you a feel of the times gone by with the jockeys. I love the interview and Dr Lorin Chasar is beautiful with grace . Great post and interview love it
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Thank you for your comment and support Damion!
More about the books!
Legendary Equestrians: The Lost Legacies from the Sport of Kings
• Description: This book plunges readers into the thrilling world of horse racing, tracing the journeys of legendary jockeys like Abe Hawkins, who overcame enslavement to become a racing icon. It explores intense rivalries, historic races, and the profound influence of trainers on generations of Black jockeys, encapsulating a narrative of struggle, courage, and triumph in the sport.
• Hardback ISBN: 978-1-959210-05-4
• Paperback ISBN: 978-1-959210-06-1
• Kindle ISBN: 978-1-959210-07-8
3. Jockey Young’uns: The Legend of the Kentucky Derby’s Youngest Winners
• Description: Targeting younger audiences, this book highlights the inspiring stories of Alonzo “Lonnie” Clayton and James “Soup” Perkins, two young Black jockeys who triumphed in the Kentucky Derby during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It details their careers, the racism they faced, and their resilience in overcoming adversity, aimed at educating young readers about diversity and the historical contributions of Black jockeys.
• Hardback ISBN: 978-1-959210-08-5
• Paperback ISBN: 978-1-959210-09-2
• Kindle ISBN: 978-1-959210-10-8
4. Legendary Maestros
• Description: This book delves into the overlooked history of Black athletes in America’s original national sport, horse racing, before the color line and Jim Crow laws ended their dominance. It narrates the triumphs and challenges these athletes faced, shedding light on their significant contributions and the barriers they broke within the sports realm.
• ISBN: 9781959210016
• Paperback ISBN: 978-1-959210-02-3
• Hardcover ISBN: 978-1-959210-03-0
• ASIN: B0BK5LV9S8
“Gilded Hoofprints: The Story of Edward Dudley Brown and The Legendary Equestrians” by Sultan Zeshan is a captivating blend of historical fiction and horse racing lore. The book invites readers on an extraordinary journey through post-Civil War America, as experienced by Edward Dudley Brown, a former slave turned pioneering jockey. Guided by mentors Abe Hawkins and Ansel Williamson, Edward rises from a humble stable hand to a celebrated jockey, forming unshakeable bonds with a group of talented African American apprentice riders. Their collective journey transcends the racetrack, evolving into a quest for dignity, equality, and a brighter future for their community, despite the relentless racism and fierce opposition they face.
Gilded Hoofprints: immerses readers in the captivating history of horse racing, with meticulously researched details and vivid descriptions of legendary races and daring riders. The narrative illuminates the untold stories of real-life athletes and the societal challenges they faced during the Reconstruction Period.
The book also includes a comprehensive horse racing encyclopedic appendices. Sultan Zeshan skillfully intertwines history and fiction, creating a portrait of hope, courage, and the enduring pursuit of justice.
“Gilded Hoofprints” is an inspiring journey, celebrating the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream and fight for equality. This extraordinary book is a timeless masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on history buffs, sports enthusiasts, and lovers of gripping narratives.
“Jockey Young’uns: The Legend of the Kentucky Derby’s Youngest Winners” is a children’s book that tells the inspiring stories of Alonzo “Lonnie” Clayton and James “Soup” Perkins, two Black jockeys who achieved great success and faced challenges in the world of horseracing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book provides a glimpse into their lives, their dedication to their craft, and the racial discrimination they encountered.
The story begins with the historic Kentucky Derby race in 1875, where the first winner, Aristides, was ridden by Oliver Lewis, a Black jockey. This sets the stage for the achievements and struggles that Lonnie Clayton and Soup Perkins would later experience.
Lonnie Clayton, born in Mississippi, comes from a large family and helps support them from a young age. He leaves home at twelve to work at a stud farm, where he learns to ride and eventually becomes a jockey. Lonnie’s determination and talent led him to win the Kentucky Derby at the age of fifteen, making him the youngest jockey to achieve this feat at the time.
Soup Perkins, growing up in Kentucky, starts working with horses at a young age and becomes a jockey at eleven. He earns a reputation for his skill and connection with horses, winning multiple races and capturing the Kentucky Derby at fifteen, tying with Lonnie as the youngest winner.
The book highlights the challenges faced by Black jockeys during this era. It mentions the Union of White Jockeys, a group formed to exclude Black jockeys from racing, driven by racial discrimination and a desire to claim all prize money for white riders. Lonnie and Soup faced hostility, racism, and efforts to impede their careers, but they remained resilient in pursuing their dreams.
The narrative explores Lonnie’s financial success, which enabled him to invest in properties and become a businessman. However, he faced a decline due to ongoing racism and legal troubles. Soup’s career was abruptly halted when he was disqualified from a race and suspended from the sport. He eventually transitions to training horses and continues his work in Canada.
The book concludes by summarizing the lives and legacies of Lonnie Clayton and Soup Perkins. It also provides a glossary, a timeline of significant events, and background information about the Kentucky Derby and the Union of White Jockeys.
Overall, “Jockey Young’uns” offers young readers a glimpse into the lives of two pioneering Black jockeys, showcasing their resilience, determination, and the challenges they overcame in the face of racial discrimination. The book emphasizes the importance of diversity and highlights the historical contributions of Black individuals to the sport of horseracing.
Book Description
“Champions are not made in the limelight but forged in the crucible of struggle, courage, and determination.”
Beneath the thundering hooves and racing fervor lies a hidden history of untold triumphs and relentless spirit. “Legendary Equestrians: The Lost Legacies from the Sport of Kings” invites you to plunge into a thrilling world where legends are born and boundaries are shattered.
Follow the extraordinary journey of Abe Hawkins, an enslaved jockey who defied the odds, whispering secrets to his trusted steeds and leaving rivals in awe as he raced to victory. Witness the pulse-pounding showdowns between Abe and the fiery Irishman, Gilpatrick, as their fierce rivalry tears through the racetracks, challenging conventions and prejudices of the time.
Unearth the wisdom passed down from Ansel Williamson, a master trainer whose tutelage transformed a generation of Black jockeys, instilling them with a unique bond and understanding of the majestic creatures they rode. Experience the unwavering determination of Edward Brown, a jockey-turned-trainer, as he rises above segregation and becomes an icon in the Sport of Kings.
From the nail-biting races that made history to the relentless pursuit of excellence, “Legendary Equestrians” catapults you into a world of adrenaline, courage, and resilience. Feel the thunderous gallops beneath you, the wind rushing through your hair, and the electrifying energy of the crowd as these unsung heroes challenge norms and redefine what it means to be a champion.
“Legendary Equestrians” is the book that will ignite your passion and leave you cheering for the unsung heroes of the racetrack. Get ready to be captivated, inspired, and transported to a world where legends are born and legacies are forged.
Gilded Hoofprints: The Story of Edward Dudley Brown and The Legendary Equestrians by Sultan Zeshan – This historical fiction piece delves into the life of Edward Dudley Brown, a former slave who becomes a pioneering jockey in post-Civil War America. With the guidance of mentors Abe Hawkins and Ansel Williamson, he and a group of African American apprentice riders navigate their path from humble beginnings to celebrated figures in horse racing, while confronting societal challenges and fighting for equality and dignity. The book offers a detailed look into the untold stories of real-life athletes and the societal obstacles they faced during the Reconstruction Period, enriched with a comprehensive appendice on horse racing.
Jockey Young’uns: The Legend of the Kentucky Derby’s Youngest Winners – This children’s book recounts the inspiring stories of Alonzo “Lonnie” Clayton and James “Soup” Perkins, two young Black jockeys who made significant achievements in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It details their lives, the racial challenges they faced, and their historic wins at the Kentucky Derby. The book aims to educate young readers about the contributions of Black jockeys to horse racing and the resilience required to overcome adversity.
Legendary Equestrians: The Lost Legacies from the Sport of Kings – This narrative focuses on the unsung heroes of horse racing, particularly emphasizing the experiences of Abe Hawkins, an enslaved jockey who defied odds and challenges to become a celebrated figure in horse racing. The book features intense rivalries, historical races, and the profound impact of figures like Ansel Williamson, who shaped a generation of Black jockeys, portraying a rich tapestry of struggle, courage, and triumph in the sport.
Legendary Maestros – This work explores the history of Black athletes in America’s original national sport, equestrian racing, prior to their participation in baseball. It highlights the triumphs and challenges faced by these athletes, whose legacies were nearly erased by the enforcement of racial segregation laws in the early 20th century. The book serves as an educational tool that shines a light on the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Black jockeys and athletes in American sports history.
Legendary Maestros uncovers the untold history of both horse racing and baseball, breathing new life into American sports history. The most fascinating story hidden within the sports realm! Before baseball, Black athletes dominated America’s first national sport, the Sport of Kings, equestrian racing. The greatest jockeys of all time rode to victory against tough competition from the late 1800s until just before 1906. Their glory came crashing down when the United States adopted the color line and Jim Crow laws, forcing them off the tracks. Who were these riders? What made them so special that history has forgotten nearly everything about them? These biographical stories offer an insightful look at the history, triumphs, and challenges of Black athletes in America. Readers will appreciate the thoughtful writing that captures the true history of Black excellence in the realm of equestrian sport, as well as the true firsts to break baseball’s color barrier. This is an important book for anyone interested in learning more about African American history or simply wanting to enjoy a fascinating story. Legendary Maestros is sure to educate and entertain readers of all ages, hopefully inspiring those who see themselves within these remarkable men to accomplish whatever they dare to dream, and to crush any barriers standing in their way.
Thank you for your comment and support Dr. Ryan!
I love to know about black history, the articles is wonderful , so many thing just learned and good to know . Thank you for that Lorin
Thank you Elevin for your support!
Such a fascinating article, I love to see positive depictions of our people!
This was a wonder collaboration and thank you to the writer and illustrator for shining light on this topic!
Thank you Latoya for your comment and support!
Awesome read!
Thank you Kenya!
Great to see, that we are opening up and expanding the minds of our children, by placing them in areas, they probably never even thought of seeing themselves in with the books like this!
LOVE TO SEE IT
Thank you DP for your comment and support!
This is fantastic! The illustrations are beautifully crafted, evoking a sense of the past with the jockeys. I thoroughly enjoyed the interview, and Dr. Lorin Chasar exudes beauty and grace. Wonderful post and interview – I absolutely loved it!
Thank you Trish for your comment and support!
Her artwork is almost as beautiful as she is!
Thank you Kathy for your comment and support!
Wow! I had no idea. Our excellence threatens those that aren’t us so much that they consistently try to smudge our existence from this world. I’m so glad this author and illustrator are doing the work they do. So cool to learn even more awesomeness about my people!
Thank you Ty for your comment and support!
Got the pleasure of meeting Lorin in Belize. She is an amazing creative individual. Excited i got the opportunity and glad to be neighbors!
Thank you Dylan for your comment and support!
The illustrations are charming, the colors captivating, and the message is needed.
Thank you Dr. Chasar.
Job well done!
Thank you B. Jackson for your comment and support!
This is amazing!! Books and illustrations like this not only shows, but tells, our young black children that they can be place anywhere and succeed. The illustrator did a great job by featuring us in our images and features. We need more books like this.
Great Job!!!
Thank you Elizabeth for your comment and support!
Exploring the intersection of Black history and the Kentucky Derby, this book offers a captivating journey through the cultural significance and untold stories behind America’s iconic horse race. From the overlooked contributions of Black jockeys to the enduring legacy of Black horse trainers, it sheds light on a rich tapestry of heritage often overshadowed by mainstream narratives. A must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of both horse racing and the African American experience.
Thank you Glen for your comment and support!
Great move because history is here to tell us about our ancestors and other things that has passed. As well Dr. Lorin Chasar is unique, a people person, and outstandingly beautiful in every angle. Congratulations!
Thank you Loli for your comment and support!
The storyline itself is wonderfully crafted, striking a balance between entertainment and educational value. Jockey Youngun’s Adventure takes young readers on a whimsical ride through a world of discovery, friendship, and bravery. What truly stands out about.
this book is its ability to engage children of different ages. The language used is simple yet captivating, making it suitable for early readers as well as for read-aloud sessions with younger children. The pacing of the narrative keeps the story moving forward, maintaining interest throughout. Dr Lorin Chaser illustration of the book is amazing. Job well done!!
Thank you Dionne for your comment and support!
This is an amazing and inspiring article, great minds think alike. Thank you to the creator & the illustrator of this beautiful piece. Hopefully our children can find their place back in the Derby someday. I would love to see that .
Thank you Dr. Chasar.
Thank you Marc for your comment and support!
This is fantastic!
Thank you, Dr. Chasar, for helping shed light on this important history. Well done!
Thank you Marty for your comment and support!
Lorins illustrations are wonderful! What an eye opening and impact full collaboration!
Thank you E for your comment and support!
Wonderfully done Lorin Chasar
Thank you Joe for your comment and support!
Great work!!!
Thank you Tahj for your comment and support!
As Lorin’s proud mother, I am thrilled to see her and her friend Sultan shedding light on the overlooked history of black jockeys in American sports. Despite facing erasure during the Jim Crow era, their legacy is being revived thanks to Lorin and Sultan’s passion. This corrects the historical perspective on the significant contributions of Black Jockeys in the Kentucky Derby, which were intentionally obscured for all the wrong reasons. Congratulations to two gifted and talented friends, Lorin and Sultan Zeshan (writer), whose efforts ensure that our youth and adults alike, particularly those of the black or African American cultural background, receive the correct historical perspective on the contributions of Black Jockeys involved in the Kentucky Derby. Now, a vivid light shines over the whitewashing of our historic contributions in American history once again.
Thank you mom for your comment and support!
Your daughter is amazing
I am too pressed for time for ane xtensive comment but all I can say is Wow! So wonderful and intelligent and impressive!
Thank you Meredith for your comment and support!
Wow lots of good information and well written. Thank you for keeping our history alive and relevant.
Thank you Priestess Akhi Nu for your comment and support!
That is an awesome! that you did all this research!! Congratulations! Love the illustrations! ❤️🙏🏼
Thank you Julie for your comment and support!
Illustration is beautiful and wonderfully done. I love to see illustrations with such vibrant colors that brings things to life.
Thank you Nadege for your comment and support!
It’s always GREAT to discover more detail about our hidden Black story
Thank you Tommy for your comment and support!
Amazing artistry!!! Epic designs!! Very proud 👏
Thank you Junior for your comment and support!
Thanks Lorin
Such a fascinating article, awesome read!
Thank you Junior Jey for your comment and support!
Have an aunt that had a restaurant on Churchhill downs the 1940s through the late 1950s. I was being Taught how to ride.Worked with horses at very early age.Only 2 Black jockeys I remember during this time Jimmy Fox was from Lexington and James Blackburn from Louisville. Neither rode in the Derby.
Thank you Norman for your comment and support!
What a phenomenal read and illustrations of the untold history of Black equestrians and their contributions to the Kentucky Derby.
Lorin Chasar’s meticulous illustrations are amazing, captivating, and encompassing of the style and attire bringing to life black equestrian’s of that era, wow!
Such a rich heritage and stories of these overlooked jockeys, beautifully depicted in the Legendary Equestrians and Jockey Young’Uns book series.
Fantastic job well done, I’d love to see more from these two collaborators.
Thank you Heather for your comment and support!
This is a great contribution to honor our ancestors and a testimony of their remarkable achievements. Congratulations on creating change and righting (writing) history, Lorin and Sultan. What an honor to make your mark in the world in such a significant way. For our youth, seeing affirming images of our people is essential. I can imagine that the conversations about the Kentucky Derby will never be the same again! Thank you again, Sultan and Lorin, for making and changing history.
Thank you Alkebulan for your comment and support!
I am looking forward to learn more about the project. This sounds very interesting!!!
Thank you Robert for your comment and support!
Absolutely wonderful to see Black history in books. Can’t wait for my book to come!
Beautiful illustrations!
Thank you Marie for your comment and support!
I love the art in these books and the stories they tell! I learned a lot about hidden history and I’d love to see more. As a Media Clerk in an elementary School. I would love to see these books should be in all elementary school libraries and homes so that our kids can learn about their history and become inspired.
Thank you C. Allen for your comment and support!
Excellent read! Lorin is an awesome illustrator. Each page of the book tells a story. As a lover of black history, the book and the illustrations are well crafted. I can’t wait to see more from Lorin.! Keep up the amazing work!
Thank you Tishani for your comment and support!
I am glad that Lorin and Sultan are shining a light on Black equestrians. Another achievement that has been erased being brought out. You never see blacks involved with the Kentucky Derby.
Thank you Jeannine for your comment and support!
Lorin,
Thank you for captioning the 0.5% African American Equestrians. You displayed them well!
Thank you Sandy for your comment and support!
OH YEAH MOST DEFINITELY, I REMEMBER LEARNING OF THIS PROLLY WHILE LIVING IN LOUISVILLE DEC 2011-NOV 2016
Thank you Reshawn for your comment and support!
Beautiful work from a beautiful person! Everything Lorin is involved in she gives 110% and you can see that in her work. Well done.
Thank you Jason for your comment and support!
Wow, just wow, they say you are never too old to learn. I didn’t know about this. Thank you @Lorin for this large piece of knowledge. Black excellency at its best. Lorin you exceeded all expectations again. Just when I thought you were only the best chiropractor in South Florida, this is top tier. Thank you and stay sweet. Great article.
Wow, just wow, they say you are never too old to learn. I didn’t know about this. Thank you @Lorin for this large piece of knowledge. Black excellency at its best. Lorin you exceeded all expectations again. Just when I thought you were only the best chiropractor in South Florida, this is top tier. Thank you and stay sweet. Great article.
Thank you Andre for your comment and support !
I think that this story is very insightful and definitely should be recognized as Black History.
Thank you Jeanine for your comment and support!
What a fascinating read! It was interesting and informative to learn about the history of Black Jockeys during the Kentucky Derby. I love the beautiful illustration. I am truly inspired. I will be sharing this amazing article with my family and friends.
Great collaboration. Kudos Lorin!
Thank you Sheila for your support and comment!
I think Dr. Chasar has a gold touch, a gold brush and hopefully soon a gold rush for all she’s done to bring this amazing history out of the shadows and into the light. More to come. Just goes to show that science and art are 2 sides of the same coin. A heart and mind full of humanity being the primary ingredient (besides wonder and curiosity) to pull this literary medicine together. A strong beginning. A great race to run.
Thank you Julie for your warm and encouraging words. Thank you for being an inspiration.
I think Dr. Chasar has a gold touch, a gold brush and hopefully soon a gold rush for all she’s done to bring this amazing history out of the shadows and into the light. More to come. Just goes to show that science and art are 2 sides of the same coin. A heart and mind full of humanity being the primary ingredient (besides wonder and curiosity) to pull this literary medicine together. A strong beginning. A great race to run.
Lorin! What a fascinating endeavor! You and Ms. Zeshan are quite a duo! Two
talented and extraordinary young women! Thank you for sharing this history. Being a life-long history buff and seeker of Black history in particular, I am very impressed that someone from the younger generation is demonstrating enough intellectual curiosity to find and share these long-hidden histories. Over the years I’ve read a minimal amount about the behind-the-scenes workers in the horse racing world, but I had no idea of the true extent of their contributions. My late husband was a genuine horse racing fan and the Kentucky Derby was a major event in our home. So I look forward to purchasing the books and sharing them because this is one more story in our history that must be told. And I thank you for digging in and doing the work!
Such a wonderful job, well done Dr. Lorin Chasar! I am so proud of you and all of your accomplishments made thus far! Keep up the good work and I look forward to hearing more on this topic and many more future endeavors.
Thank you for shedding light and bringing awareness to our community on the important roles that the African American jockeys and Equestrians played within our culture, which could have been easily overlooked. This will help bring acknowledgement and appreciation to a sport that can benefit and uplift a new generation to come, which may have interest in becoming a Jockey or Equestrians. Thank you for the awareness, after reading your wonderful article, I am now more informed and knowledgeable of the sport. Much success!
This is marvelous! The artwork is skillfully done, capturing a nostalgic essence with the jockeys. The interview was a delight, and Dr. Lorin Chasar radiates elegance and charm. Such a superb post and interview – it was truly captivating!