Knight Errant was destined never to race. Plagued by an undiagnosed ailment and written off by his famous owner, he had been turned into a trail horse when turf writer Bill Richards chanced upon him at a ranchito in the hills above Santa Anita racetrack. Richards immediately recognized Knight Errant as one of the fastest animals he ever witnessed in a morning workout.

Through compelling characters and a fast-paced storyline, A Knight Errant explores the passion that draws people to racing, the experience of campaigning a once-in-a-lifetime horse, the distinction between legitimate therapeutic treatments and illegal performance-enhancing drugs, and the cultural forces that shape horse racing policy.

After more than 60 years immersed in the Thoroughbred industry – as a journalist, bloodstock agent, owner, breeder, syndicator, and Kentucky Derby-winning racing executive – Barry Irwin has accomplished a lifelong goal with the release of his debut novel. As CEO of Team Valor International, Barry has been involved with some of racing’s most memorable successes, including Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom. He is the author of Derby Innovator: The Making of Animal Kingdom and Swaps.