The Blood-Horse: A Century of Thoroughbred Racing Journalism
For over a century, The Blood-Horse has served as a cornerstone of the equine world, documenting the lineage, triumphs, and challenges of the thoroughbred industry. What began as a modest bulletin for a small community of breeders has evolved into a globally recognized authority on horse racing and breeding.
The Evolution of a Racing Icon
The publication's origins date back to August 1, 1916, with the release of Volume 1, Number 1 of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Horse Association Bulletin. Initially designed to support local breeders, the publication underwent a significant transformation in 1929. On May 11 of that year, it was renamed The Blood-Horse and shifted to a weekly publication schedule to reach a wider, international audience. The inaugural issue of this new era featured the horse Blue Larkspur on its cover.
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Founding Influence and Leadership
The early success of the magazine was driven by key industry figures. Thomas Piatt, a charter member from 1916, played a pivotal role; he served as the Vice President of the old Thoroughbred Horse Association, a director of the American Thoroughbred Breeders Association, and was a founding member of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association.
The editorial direction of the magazine has been shaped by a succession of leaders. Thomas Cromwell served as the first editor, followed by Joe Estes, who joined in 1930. Subsequent editors-in-chief included Kent Hollingsworth, Ed Bowen, Ray Paulick, and Dan Liebman.
Impact on the Racing Industry
Beyond reporting race results, The Blood-Horse has used its platform to drive systemic change. The publication gained significant acclaim for an exclusive report revealing that Ferdinand, the 1986 Kentucky Derby winner, had been slaughtered overseas following a lackluster career as a stud. This revelation sparked a movement to increase protections and rescue efforts for retired racehorses.
The magazine's prestige was highlighted in 2003 when William Nack of ESPN described it as "the thoroughbred industry's most-respected trade publication." To mark the turn of the millennium, the staff compiled a definitive list of the Top 100 Racehorses of the 20th Century, which was later expanded into a full-length book.
Digital Expansion and Modern Era
To keep pace with the digital age, the publication launched Bloodhorse.com. In August 2015, the brand expanded further with the launch of Blood-Horse Daily, delivering content via a dedicated app, email subscriptions, and website downloads. In April 2021, the print magazine transitioned from its previous frequency back to a monthly schedule.
Key Facts
- Founded: August 1, 1916, as the Kentucky Thoroughbred Horse Association Bulletin.
- Rebranded: Became The Blood-Horse on May 11, 1929.
- First Cover Image: Blue Larkspur.
- Digital Presence: Bloodhorse.com and the Blood-Horse Daily app.
- Current Print Cycle: Monthly (as of April 2021).
Publication Summary
| Year | Event/Milestone | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1916 | First Bulletin Published | Served a small community of breeders |
| 1929 | Renamed The Blood-Horse | Expanded to a weekly global audience |
| 1986+ | Ferdinand Report | Increased efforts to save retired racehorses |
| 2015 | Blood-Horse Daily Launch | Introduced app and email subscriptions |
| 2021 | Schedule Change | Returned to a monthly print frequency |
Published Works
The Blood-Horse has extended its expertise into several specialized books:
- Thoroughbred Champions: Top 100 Racehorses of the 20th Century (1999) - ISBN 1-58150-024-6
- Handicapping the Wall Street Way by Mark Ripple (2005) - ISBN 1-58150-126-9
- Horse Racing's Top 100 Moments (2006) - ISBN 1-58150-139-0
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Blood-Horse first published?
The publication began as the Kentucky Thoroughbred Horse Association Bulletin on August 1, 1916, before being renamed The Blood-Horse in 1929.
Who was the first editor of the magazine?
Thomas Cromwell served as the first editor of the publication.
How did the magazine influence the welfare of retired horses?
By exclusively reporting that the 1986 Kentucky Derby winner, Ferdinand, was slaughtered after his stud career, the magazine helped catalyze efforts to protect and save retired racehorses.
What digital platforms does The Blood-Horse offer?
The organization operates the website Bloodhorse.com and the Blood-Horse Daily service, which is available via an app and email subscriptions.
What is the current print frequency of the magazine?
As of April 2021, the magazine is published on a monthly schedule.