Railbird 2004–2019

Horses Archive

The legendary 18th century racehorse Eclipse was average, says a British scientist. “In that very averageness lay the secret of his greatness.” (New York Times)

She’s lost more races than Zippy Chippy, but the Japanese public is crazy for perpetual loser Haru Urara. “The unlucky thoroughbred can now lay claim to a 113-race losing streak, even after having been ridden by Japan’s top jockey, Yutaka Take, which has only added to the Haru Fever gripping the nation. T-shirts, keitai (cell-phone) decorations (a little horse with a small sign reading “Never give up”) and postcards bearing her photo have been flying out of stores. She’s been in a Kirin beer commercial, is the subject of a popular song and has even had the honor of meeting the prime minister.” (SF Gate)