The Road to Emerald Downs — David Long

Ben Grove's dad said his dream was foolish. Don't fill your life with go-no where jobs, he said. Now a year and a half after his parents die in a boating accident on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, he still dreams of becoming a jockey. When quick thinking and heroic action during a tragedy lead to the opportunity of a lifetime, Ben must overcome emotional obstacles and quit his job to pursue an unsure thing. With the support of his girlfriend Val, and friends Bo and Mariel he accepts the challenge. Soon Ben and a black Thoroughbred colt named Rowdy find themselves competing against champion horses and expert riders. When confronted by Val's ex-boyfriend Jaime, a jockey who will do anything to stand in his way, Ben has to up his game. But just when it looks like Ben is making his way in the saddle, his hopes are devastated. He and Rowdy must risk it all to make it to the top echelon of horseracing in the Pacific Northwest. Together, they travel down the exhilarating path that will take them there: The Road to Emerald Downs.