Here comes a unique horse, known to his friends as Wink, with an inspiring true story. Raised to become a racehorse, Wink’s future becomes uncertain when as a foal he becomes permanently disabled. Kindness, good training, and a positive outlook help this standardbred thrive at the track. Once his career reaches its end, the adventure continues: Wink achieves new purpose with a new life in rural Nova Scotia, surrounded by a caring family and animal friends. Wink, a poem written for middle-grade readers, is the true story about gaining the confidence to overcome life’s challenges. Its inspiring lessons will resonate with audiences of all ages as Wink shares a less often discussed side of horse training.
Growing up, Kevin Lakes spent his summer days and evenings on the backstretch of Fredericton Raceway, a few blocks from his home. With his father Eric, Kevin raced horses during a vibrant 1980s era of racing at the historic oval, training 132 winners. He has lived in Wolfville, Nova Scotia since 1994 while teaching at King’s-Edgehill School. Along with his wife Penny and their sons, they have provided a home for a retired standardbred since 2003. Marilyn Curry grew up near Newmarket, Ontario. She has lived her adult life in Boston and Nova Scotia, where she and her husband, Rev. David Curry raised their three children. She recently retired after 15 years as the Librarian at King’s-Edgehill School in Windsor, Nova Scotia. A self-taught artist, she now has more time to pursue her passion for animals, gardening, family, and drawing. She visits Wink on a regular basis at his forever home, as she is always looking for new ways to see
