How an undersized, discarded racehorse became a symbol of hope during the Great Depression

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Seabiscuit was an unlikely champion, initially dismissed as lazy and unremarkable. Yet, under the guidance of trainer Tom Smith and owner Charles S. Howard, this small bay colt transformed into a national phenomenon, capturing the public imagination and offering a welcome diversion to millions of Americans during the Great Depression.

Foaled in 1933 at Claiborne Farm, Seabiscuit was the son of Hard Tack and Swing On. Early in his career, he was considered an unimpressive performer, struggling through a heavy racing schedule that saw him fail to place in 18 of his 35 starts as a two-year-old. By August 1936, his original owners had lost faith, entering him in a claiming race for $6,000. Despite winning the event, no one claimed him, leaving him available for purchase.

His fortunes shifted when automobile distributor Charles S. Howard bought the horse for $8,000. Howard’s trainer, Tom Smith, possessed a unique ability to rejuvenate discarded horses. Under their care, Seabiscuit’s true potential emerged. He became known for a distinct racing style, preferring to trail the pack before launching a powerful, late-stretch rush to the wire. This contrasted sharply with the front-running tactics of his rival, War Admiral, the leading three-year-old of 1937.

The rivalry culminated in a highly anticipated match race on November 1, 1938, at Pimlico Race Course. Despite being a 22-10 underdog against the 1-4 favorite, Seabiscuit dominated. His jockey, having been instructed to push hard, guided the horse to an early lead, ultimately winning by four lengths and setting a new track record. This victory earned him Horse of the Year honors. Though injuries plagued his later years, he returned in 1940 to win the Santa Anita Handicap, a race he had previously lost twice by a nose. Seabiscuit died in 1947, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most celebrated Thoroughbreds in American history.

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