Overview

Riding for America is a story about a mother's sacrifice and inspiration as she guides her only son, Isaac Burns Murphy, to become the highest-paid and most successful sports icon of the 19th century. Although both of Isaac's parents, America Murphy and Jerry Burns, were born into slavery-and Jerry fought in some of the most decisive battles of the Civil War-Isaac was able to overcome challenges and become the ""Prince of Jockeys."" Isaac was known for his intellect, strategy, good sportsmanship, and kindness to the horses he cared for and rode to victory. A few of his notable wins and accomplishments include three Kentucky Derbys, four of five American Derbys, and the first photo finish in American sports history-a match race between a White and a Black rider. Readers will learn about a Black horse trainer named Eli Jordan, who coached Isaac to become the first jockey inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. A page-turner and a quick read, Riding for America moves at a fast pace with unpredictable twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Educational, entertaining, and historically significant, Riding for America is a journey of excitement filled with tenderness and a love of literature, life, animals, mothers, teachers, spouses, and friends. Isaac Murphy was a superstar with class, sophistication, and impeccable integrity. His life exemplifies perseverance and triumph against unimaginable odds. Isaac was a great American. He deserves to be remembered and celebrated as one of the most extraordinary sports heroes in U.S. history.

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Nancy Hays' is a singer/songwriter and business owner based in Chicago. Riding for America is Nancy's passion project, which began as an inspiration in 2019 after reading about Isaac Murphy's story while producing an entertainment event at the Kentucky Derby Museum. During the pandemic, Nancy commissioned her son, Eddie Heffernan, a screenwriter, to assist her in creating a screenplay, stage play, and Young Adult novel about a remarkable mother named America, who raised a legendary sports hero.

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