The History of Horse Racing: First Past the Post: Champion Thoroughbreds, Owners, Trainers and Jockeys, Illustrated with 220 Drawings, Paintings and Photographs Hardcover – Illustrated, 23 Sept. 2017

This book is broadly based, looking at the history of racing in Britain, Ireland, America, Australia, France and some other countries. With only 160 (albeit large) pages and plenty of great pictures occupying much of the space, it would be impossible for the author to explore the subject in any depth and he doesn't try. However, even though I've read a number of books on the subject, most of them focus mainly on Britain and Ireland, so even I was able to learn a few things. I'd never even heard of Eddie Arcaro, who I'm assured by the author and by an American friend is the best American jockey that ever lived. I'd always assumed that distinction belonged to either Steve Cauthen or Willie Shoemaker. I must read a book or more about American racing history, hopefully including harness and quarter horse racing, which only get a passing mention here. Based on what I know, most of the really famous American horses get a mention including Secretariat, Seabiscuit, Native Dancer, Man o' war, Lexington and Cigar, although John Henry is a notable omission.Because the book is unable to do more than give us an appreciation of the subject, a lot of great champions aren't even mentioned. Although Australia gets fair coverage, there is no mention of Black Caviar. Among British horses, Frankel is only briefly mentioned in the piece on Henry Cecil, while the globe-trotting Ouija Board gets no mention at all. The horse most often compared to Frankel, Brigadier Gerard, also isn't mentioned at all, even though my all-time favourite, Mill Reed, gets two pages, including a superb head-on-shot of his Epsom Derby win with the other horses spread out behind him. The author notes that Mill Reef was second in the 2,000 Guineas but does not name the winner. Perhaps he shares my disbelief that any horse could beat Mill Reef, but it looked comprehensive on the day. More predictably, the British love of jump racing ensured that Arkle, Fpinavon, Red Run and Desert Orchid all get plenty of coverage.The early history and breeding of racehorses is also mentioned, including the three foundation stallions, but again, you won't find a lot of detail. I remember the first time I learned about those foundation stallions, thinking that I was missing something. Of course, there were plenty of other stallions including some greys (one of whom is the ancestor of all modern grey racehorses) but all this book can do is discuss Northern Dancer, the Coolmore operation, their Arab rivals and some other basics.Scandals are not forgotten, and it's no surprise to see the 1844 Epsom Derby featured.So a lot is missing, but this book is fantastic for offering a basic appreciation of the sport with brilliant pictures.

Bought as a Birthday gift for my father in law who's favourite hobby is horse racing. He's found the book extremely informative and full of colourful pictures and illustrations. Thank you

Good product. Good price

Good value for money, made a great gift

This is a super quality dog leash, with its heavy duty nylon and quality clips. It's also adjustable to 3 lengths. What's more it looks great. I'm a very satisfied and happy customer.

I gave his book as a gift to my fellow thoroughbred lover - it was a hit! Great price and really fun to read through

It is as good as I thought it would be!

Good vfm

I bought this for a man that has enjoyed a lifetime of horseracing. Unfortunately he is incarcerated and will be for many years to come, so I bought this and had it sent directly to the prison… That’s the only way you can send something,.. if it comes straight from the publisher! My jailbird loves the book!

This was purchased as a gift for a horseracing enthusiast. It seemed to be a good quality hard cover book, but they never said if they liked it or not, so I don't know how great the content was.

Great gift for my grandfather who is into this topic. Slight wear and tear on the book but his vision isn't that good so I'll take it.

Fast Shipping, excellent product and a great deal. I'm very satisfied and plan to purchase more of these items!

beautiful coffee table book.