From Racing Royalty to Maverick Reformer
He was born into one of Thoroughbred racing’s royal families and the future of Arthur B. Hancock III seemed predestined. He would learn the lessons taught to him by his renowned father and grandfather. He would follow in their footsteps and run a world-class breeding farm and raise good horses. Hancock did fulfill that birthright, but not in the way that was once imagined.
Instead of taking over his family’s Claiborne Farm, he struck out on his own and developed a farm a few miles down the road. He became a steward of the land and established himself as a stalwart in the Thoroughbred industry for medication reform and equine aftercare. And, yes, he has raised good horses. More than 200 individual stakes winners have been reared at Hancock’s Stone Farm in Paris, Kentucky. They include three Kentucky Derby winners as well as runners who have earned ten championships. Among them was the great Sunday Silence, a two-time Classic winner and Horse of the Year who played a pivotal role in Hancock’s life and success.
A man of passion and humor, Hancock is a talented storyteller, songwriter, and musician. Songs he has written have been recorded by the likes of Willie Nelson, Ray Price, and Grandpa Jones. Hancock wrote and recorded three folk country and bluegrass albums: A Horse of a Different Color, Time, and Sunday Silence. He collaborated with his son for the release of Arthur and Arthur.
He recently released his first book entitled Dark Horses: A Memoir of Redemption, which chronicles stories of his life ranging from childhood shenanigans to some of the highs and lows of adulthood. Hancock’s friends and associations range from Thoroughbred racing dignitaries and well known musicians to local buddies he’s been pals with since childhood. Together, they weave a rich history.
Hancock has taken advantage of the opportunities life afforded him, while dealing with adversity and facing his demons. His battle with alcohol has played a significant role in his life, his songs, and his writing.
A devoted husband and father, he has taken his own path to build a legacy as a horseman, musician, poet and author.
