Does seabiscuit beat war admiral?

Does Seabiscuit Beat War Admiral?

The horse racing industry has always been a testament to the ingenuity, skill, and determination of both humans and animals alike. Among the many memorable moments in racing history, the rivalry between Seabiscuit and War Admiral stands out as one of the most iconic and dramatic. The two horses clashed in the famous 1938 match race, known as the "Match of the Century." But, did Seabiscuit actually beat War Admiral?

The Setting

In the late 1930s, Seabiscuit, a small but spirited horse bred by Frank J. McMahon, and War Admiral, a magnificent stallion foaled by Man o’ War, dominated the racing world. The two horses shared a special bond, being bred and trained by Hall of Fame trainers, Charlie Whiting and Tom Smith, respectively. Their meeting on a hot summer day in Akron, Ohio, would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

Seabiscuit’s Path to Glory

Seabiscuit was a product of the Ohio-based J.K.L. Ross Stables, purchased by the aforementioned Frank J. McMahon for a meager $8,000. McMahon, a lawyer and sports enthusiast, saw great potential in the horse, despite its small stature (14.2 hands). Under Whiting’s guidance, Seabiscuit underwent intense training, focusing on its strong legs and wind. Its first major win came at the 1936 Saratoga Championship, with Seabiscuit becoming the first three-year-old to win the race. This victory would set the stage for an incredible three-year run, culminating in the iconic match race against War Admiral.

War Admiral’s Dominance

War Admiral, born in 1934, was the undisputed star of the horse racing world. As the son of Man o’ War, one of the greatest stallions in American racing history, War Admiral inherited the legendary bloodline. Trained by Tom Smith, War Admiral won numerous prestigious races, including the 1936 Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, solidifying its reputation as a supreme champion. Throughout its illustrious career, War Admiral accumulated an astonishing 12 wins and a single defeat.

The Match

On November 1, 1938, Seabiscuit faced off against War Admiral at Akron’s Siebert Field in what would be the most thrilling match of the century. The excitement was palpable as these two titans of racing clashed in the 1 1/16th-mile contest. In front of a crowd of over 40,000, Seabiscuit, ridden by Red Pollard, drew off, taking the early lead with War Admiral in tow, piloted by Charles Lasch. Seabiscuit maintained a steady pace, while War Admiral remained hot on its heels, refusing to back down. In a stunning display of determination, Seabiscuit finished 2 lengths ahead, clocking 1:53 for the distance, shattering the track record.

The Aftermath

After the match, the equestrian community was stunned. For the first time in recorded history, a horse smaller than the average racing stable had outperformed one of the greatest champions ever. War Admiral, typically an arrogant and dominant horse, proved to be equally impressed with Seabiscuit, acknowledging its determination and unwavering courage. In the aftermath of the race, Seabiscuit’s popularity surged, making it an international sensation and cementing its place among the all-time greats.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Conclusion

In answer to the original question: Yes, Seabiscuit beat War Admiral in the Match of the Century. Their rivalry continues to captivate audiences today, serving as a testament to the ingenuity of horse breeding and training, as well as the undying spirit of competition in the world of horse racing.