Remembering Ed Bowen, Early Editor at Canadian Thoroughbred

One of horse racing’s most prolific writers, ED BOWEN, passed away at his home in Versailles, Kentucky at the age of 82, according to The Blood Horse.

Bowen was one of the first editors of the notable monthly magazine CANADIAN HORSE (now the online Canadian Thoroughbred), taking over from Don Valliere in the summer of 1968 and guiding the publication until 1970.

Bowen would be covering Ontario topics such as the possibility of introducing Sunday racing and the impressive accomplishments of Canadian-breds in other racing jurisdictions.

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Bowen grew up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida where he was influenced by a father who liked horses. He rode ponies as a boy and became a fan of Thoroughbred racing from watching races on television. In 1960 he attended the University of Florida to study journalism then in 1963 transferred to the University of Kentucky, a move that allowed him to also write for the Lexington-based The Blood-Horse magazine.

Following his time as Canadian Horse editor, Bowen returned to work for The Blood-Horse as its managing editor, remaining with the magazine for another 23 years and rising to be its editor-in-chief.

Bowen was the author of 18 books including the two-volume set, Legacies of the Turf. He penned the story of Man o’ War, the first book in the Thoroughbred Legends series published by Eclipse Press. For the series, he also authored the books on War Admiral, Nashua, and Bold Ruler. Bowen’s most recent book was Matriarchs, Volume 2: More Great Mares of Modern Times, released in October 2008.

Bowen was the recipient of a number of industry awards including the 1972 Eclipse Award for Outstanding Magazine Writing.

The following is a statement from Keeneland president and CEO Shannon Arvin on the passing of Edward L. Bowen:

“Ed Bowen was respected globally for his considerable talent, integrity and passion for the horse industry. His wide-ranging contributions during a distinguished career, most notably his service as president of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and as an award-winning journalist and editor of The Blood-Horse, will be a legacy for future generations. As a prolific author and storyteller, often through beautifully told features for Keeneland magazine, Ed made racing’s important history come alive for a legion of fans. He also was an invaluable patron and supporter of Keeneland Library. We at Keeneland will never forget his friendship, kindness and his dedication to the betterment of the sport.

“On behalf of Keeneland, we extend our deepest condolences to Ed’s wife, Ruthie, and his entire family.”