The Black Stallion

Alec and Henry take the Black to Belmont two nights later. Once again, Jake marvels at the stallion’s running ability: “I never knew a horse could have that much endurance […] The blood of a good many horses runs in his veins. Yep, and only his love for the boy keeps him on that track now” (141). As the stallion runs, Napoleon breaks free from his halter and runs onto the track as well. The Black circles him once and continues to run. Napoleon tries to follow, running about three quarters of the way around the track and walking the rest of the way.

Henry, Jake, and Alec discuss the idea of racing the Black, recognizing that the possibility seems remote. Henry finally gets word from Arabia that there is no horse fitting the Black’s description registered. Though they continue to train the Black, Alec is very discouraged, believing he will not be able to race.

Henry and Alec, along with all horseracing fans in the country, talk about the controversy between the two undefeated champion racehorses, Cyclone and Sun Raider, one on the east coast and one on the west coast. Each claim to be the fastest racehorse in the country.