When most people think of the 84 Games, images of the huge Coliseum come to mind. Or maybe they think of Mary Lou Retton's triumph over the vault or Mary Decker's devastating fall during that infamous race against Zola Budd. Most people don't think of the equestrian events at Santa Anita, which is why I chose it as the centerpiece of my first novel.
It was during these first two weeks in August, that the United States Equestrian Team rode into history and captured the hearts of everyone who witnessed its stunning display of skill, athleticism, and spirit. My mission in writing this book is twofold. The first goals is to tell a story that entertains. The second one is to hi-light a sport that receives very little attention from anyone other than horse enthusiasts. Equestrian is a unique sport that sees male and female riders competing equally and the real athletes have four legs. I will be sharing more pictures from the aforementioned book American Gold. This story would not be possible without the support from Chronicle of the Horse and I am grateful to them for allowing the pictures to be used on this blog.
Sunset on an evening workout at Santa Anita, circa August 1984
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