Sacrifice - by Oisin Murphy (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Born prematurely, weighing less than a bag of sugar, Oisin Murphy's life has always been one of struggle. From a young age he found communion with horses. Mesmerized by their power, their spirit, he discovered a gift for the saddle.

Oisin quickly established himself as one of horseracing's most prodigious talents. But reaching the pinnacle of the sport required a high-wire dance that pushed his body and mind to their breaking point. Despite a three-year streak as champion jockey, alcohol addiction lurked beneath the surface, and a string of misdemeanors saw him banned for over a year.

"I dealt with success and failure the same. Drink was the rock I perished on. The day I picked up the championship trophy there was no element of joy in it for me."

Fast paced and searingly honest, Sacrifice follows Oisin's extraordinary journey back from the brink to recover his love for the sport and reclaim his champion jockey crown in 2024. It lays bare the realities of life as a professional jockey and the personal cost of success in a sport that demands total obsession.

Review Quotes

A gripping and incredibly honest insight into our sport, from one of racing's most exciting talents.--Frankie Dettori

An astonishingly honest account of what it's like being a professional jockey.--Daily Telegraph

Racing's answer to George Best.--Daily Telegraph

Blunt and engaging.--Irish Times

An unsparing account of the all-consuming demands jockeys face.--Donald McRae, The Guardian

One of the best books I've read all year; utterly compelling.--Brendan O'Connor

About the Author

Oisin Murphy grew up in Killarney in Ireland. He started riding ponies from the age of 4 and competed in show jumping before switching to flat racing. He has won two British Classics and a number of Group 1 races. He has been British Champion Jockey in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024