It’s almost time for the Kentucky Derby. Social elites will join horseracing fans for one of the most celebrated two minutes in sports as the best in equine athleticism prepare for the Run for the Roses 2024. Preparing to celebrate the 150th Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 4, is very different this year for bestselling author Sultan Zeshan. Known as the sport of kings, horse racing at this level has been reserved for the wealthy and White. Zeshan says he looks forward to sharing his new literary series this year that uncovers the African American impact on the Kentucky Derby that most know nothing about. Ironically, Zeshan’s research for his book uncovered African American jockeys that have been all but erased from the sport’s history.
“As a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where horse racing legends like jockey Abe Hawkins once raced, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the untold stories of those who are overlooked and the underdog. Their achievements and contributions have been unnoticed for too long, much like my own experiences with being overlooked and facing discrimination growing up as a person of color. Finding inspiration in figures like the Hall of Fame African American race equestrian, the late Edward Dudley Brown, who faced every challenge with resilience, I was called to tell these stories and to bring these gems to enjoy the limelight once again. I was motivated by Toni Morrison’s words: ‘If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it,’ ” Zeshan shares.
Frustrated with the lack of information about Black jockeys, Zeshan decided to write the stories himself. He partnered with award-winning illustrator Lorin Chasar, and the two created a literary series that immediately made waves across the country. Zeshan says it is disheartening to see how Blacks were erased from the perceived history of the Derby.
“As a student at Louisiana State University, I took numerous classes related to African American historical studies. I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for these narratives. I wanted to highlight the remarkable stories of African American athletes in both horse racing and Major League Baseball through published works: Gilded Hoofprints: The Story of Edward Dudley Brown and The Legendary Equestrians, Jockey Young’uns: The Legend of the Kentucky Derby’s Youngest Winners, Legendary Equestrians: The Lost Legacies from the Sport of Kings, and Legendary Major Leaguers: The True Story of Moses Fleetwood Walker and his Brother. I want to ensure these pioneers are not just remembered but celebrated, their stories serving as powerful testaments to their tenacity and fortitude. These narratives go beyond mere records of sports achievements; they reflect the human struggle for dignity and equality. My work is a tribute to those who paved the way and a guide for those who feel unseen, ensuring the richness of our history is both honored and remembered,” he says.
The 2024 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at Churchhill Downs. Sultan Zeshan’s books are available everywhere books are sold.
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Wow this is awesome. Here is more information about the books by Sultan Zeshan.
Gilded Hoofprints: The Story of Edward Dudley Brown and The Legendary Equestrians
• Description: This historical fiction novel captures the life of Edward Dudley Brown, a former slave who rises to become a pioneering jockey after the Civil War. Under the guidance of Abe Hawkins and Ansel Williamson, he forms bonds with a group of talented African American apprentice riders, navigating challenges and striving for equality and dignity. The book blends meticulously researched historical details with vivid storytelling, highlighting the societal challenges of the Reconstruction Period.
• Kindle ISBN: 978-1-959210-14-6
• ASIN: B0CFTPPYYR
• Paperback ISBN: 978-1-959210-15-3
• Hardback ISBN: 978-1-959210-16-0
• Apple ID: 6468774680
2. 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.
Here are the books Author Sultan Zeshan
Gilded Hoofprints: The Story of Edward Dudley Brown and The Legendary Equestrians
• Description: This historical fiction novel captures the life of Edward Dudley Brown, a former slave who rises to become a pioneering jockey after the Civil War. Under the guidance of Abe Hawkins and Ansel Williamson, he forms bonds with a group of talented African American apprentice riders, navigating challenges and striving for equality and dignity. The book blends meticulously researched historical details with vivid storytelling, highlighting the societal challenges of the Reconstruction Period.
• Kindle ISBN: 978-1-959210-14-6
• ASIN: B0CFTPPYYR
• Paperback ISBN: 978-1-959210-15-3
• Hardback ISBN: 978-1-959210-16-0
• Apple ID: 6468774680
2. 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
Wow! Who knew?! Love to hear about black influence on current culture. Many thanks to Sultan for publishing this important information!