Tip#448: Amazing True Stories Part 1 - Secretariat

I have fond memories as a child of my Dad and Mom talking about a racehorse named Secretariat. I remember looking at that odd name in the newspaper (can a horse be a secretary?!) and that my parents were excited about this amazing, true story. It would only be decades later that I'd learn more about this wonder horse and the woman who was his courageous owner through the magic of a movie.

Secretariat (2010)

Based on a true story, the movie Secretariat is about housewife and mother Penny Chenery (Diane Lane) who takes over her ailing father's horse stables despite her lack of experience. With the help of trainer Lucien Laurin (John Malkovich) and other key people Chenery guided a horse named Secretariat to the unbeatable record win of the 1973 Triple Crown. See: movie trailer

Inspiring Themes:  
• Courage 
• Self-Confidence
• Having a Vision 
• Following a Passion
• Persistence & Perseverance 
• Resilience 
• Leadership
• Teamwork & Team Spirit
• Strategic Thinking
• Supportive Relationships 
• Indestructible Optimism

It was inspiring to see such a strong willed woman take on the male dominated business of horse racing. She was so passionate in her faith in Secretariat that she even fought against her own husband and brother's demands to sell the horse. Chenery even refused an offer to buy the horse for $8 million dollars. She demonstrates great courage and leadership qualities throughout the film!

“This is not about going back. This is about life being ahead of you and you run at it! Because you never know how far you can run unless you run.”

What moved me the most was the metaphor in following a dream in life through the method of how Secretariat would win each race. He would leave the starting gate in last place and stay there for 3/4's of the race. Then with incredible speed and power Secretariat would explode with energy and fly like lightening past the other horses in the final 1/4.This is an inspiring idea for anyone who feels they are late in their lives to achieve their dreams or goals. It is never too late!

What movies about amazing, true stories inspire you?

There are many movies based on true stories like Invictus, Rudy, Julie & Julia, The King's Speech and Erin Brockovich. These stories of real women and men can motivate you to be the best you can be at work and in life. What films have inspired you? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below OR click on the blog title above and scroll to bottom.

Related Tips:
Tip#487: Amazing True Stories Part 2 - Mao’s Last Dancer

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2011