Journeys to the Stars

The initial aim of this book was to discover the ancestors of the two champion racehorses, Fantastic Light and Galileo. Admittedly, not a narrative to excite the average reader, but the author, in pursuing the main objective, has created a story of intrigue, including descriptions of some colourful characters of the racing game and a sprinkling of genetic principles applicable to the breeding of the racehorse. The journeys referred to in the title, cover a wide geographical spread. In the final stage of his research, the author becomes suspicious, concerning the progenitor of a horse named Spearmint, the winner of 1906 Derby. The reader will find the facts presented regarding this anomaly intriguing and will, no doubt, give their own judgement in this matter. Finally, to assist the readers in understanding the very basic genetic principle used in the book, some basic Technical Appendices are produced.

The author was born in the village of Shrigley, Co. Down, N. Ireland. At the age of 16, he left his native province, never to return. An Airforce career ended in 1970, the transition to civilian life proving difficult, a period in his life which the author describes as “the wilderness years”.

His final contribution to the well-being of the nation’s economy was managing a centre for the unemployed in his local area. This was by far his most rewarding occupation, the experience made him a more tolerant person, and he now knew what it was really like to be one of the unwanted members of this modern society.

In retirement, he pursued, with renewed enthusiasm, his life-long interest: the history of the thoroughbred racehorse.