Customer Reviews

Ten Best Kentucky Derbies

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Of course, the people who have lived through the experience of triumph in the kentucky derby say that it cannot simply be described in words. But this book comes awfully close. Panelists of The Blood-Horse were polled to see which Derby was the most memorable. Of course, it is true with what D. Wayne Lukas said in the forward, "They're all special." But the panelists picked their top ten: Secretariat, and who wouldn't pick him? He was a superhorse that finished the derby in under two minutes! What a freak! Canonero the second, now this was a story I did not know of, but this one about the venuezuelan horse that won the derby and preakness at impeccible odds deserves a novel of it's own. Iron Leige's derby triumph was pretty ironic, what with the fact that Shoemaker, on Gallant Man, was warned not to stand up in his stirrups during the race and that is exactly what happened! Affirmed and Alydar, of course, carry a rivalry that goes unmatched. Citation, the Calumet iron horse, was a magnificent freak of nature, always fun to read that story. Brokers Tip, Black Gold and Regret, stories of derbies long in the past, were fascinating for their way of bringing history back to you in such a vivid way. Alysheba's incredible journey around the turn was enough to start off a remarkable career. and last but not least, Calumet's other triple crown star, Whirlaway. All of them bring back the days of wine and roses, on one of the most historic days that has been celebrated over 100 years. It is impossible to pick the best Kentucky Derby, but these 10 are just enough to get you in high Derby spirits.

This another one of three books that my friend requested for Christmas. Any Book on Kentucky Derbies or individual Derby Winners that she requests as a gift, I can always find on Amazon. She doesn't have to tell me to look on Amazon to find it because I know that it will be there.

While the sports marketplace is littered with books which judge performers and performances, this compilation from the staff and correspondents of The Blood-Horse magazine is unique; it started as a cornerstone story in a special edition of the publication in 2000.

Through expanded commentary, classic photographs and result charts, the vivid stories of the legends like Secretariat and Citation, the forgotten champs - Black Gold, Brokers Tip - and amazing victories of Canonero II and Alysheba are chronicled in a way that the most hardened railbird or casual fan can appreciate.

And like a past performance chart on a rain-soaked afternoon, the rankings can be tossed aside, as each story stands alone as fascinating tributes to the equine athletes, jockeys, owners and breeders.

As much as a reference guide as wonderful history, it is an outstanding example of making a winner out of an oftentimes stale means of judging sports history.