As you read through Thoroughbred pedigrees or look at the champions of past and present, you soon realize that the American Thoroughbred would not be what it is today without the influence of the Hancock family. For almost a century and a half, the Hancocks have placed an indelible fingerprint on the pedigree pages of the Thoroughbred in America and, indeed, throughout the world.

Frank Mitchell has spent countless hours interviewing members of the Hancock family. He has delved into the history, horses, partnerships and more in his quest to chronicle this dynasty of American racing.

It has been said that the secret to the success of the Hancocks and Claiborne Farm was the philosophy that success lies not in breeding the occasional champion, but rather in controlling the bloodlines the champions of the future come from. Here are the business strategies, the breeding theories, the champion horses, of the generations of diligent, insightful men and women who have given so much to the industry.