Kentucky Derby Stories [Hardcover]

Jim Bolus (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1993

They say every Derby has its story. It could be a remarkable trainer, a last-place finish for a first-place horse, or a newfound overseas interest in the race. Whatever the subject, the legends and history of each year's run create the enthusiasm and drive that bring thousands back time and time again. And just like its counterparts--the Super Bowl, the World Series, and the Indy 500-there are legends and stories to be told that exemplify the fervor that begins in Louisville nearly a whole month before the race. Kentucky Derby Stories captures that spirit with fifteen stories, both old and new, that feature the best moments in the Derby's history. Author Jim Bolus spotlights the men and women who began and maintained the race-from the black jockeys to "Mr. Derby" Col. Matt Winn to Ben Jones, the Derby's most-remembered trainer. This collection also focuses an eye on the runners, some whose greatness was a surprise to all. Some have been geldings, others competitors in famed rivalries, and there are those who came from nowhere to win the race. No matter what the circumstances in the victory, Bolus takes note of the most memorable horses decorating the winners circle. Finally, this compilation looks at the unique elements of the Derby as seen over more than a century. Who are the celebrities who attend and have their stake in the race? What overseas nation is taking a winner's interest in the Derby? These are just a few of the unpredictable sides of the run that Bolus and his stories introduce. Sportswriter and Derby historian Jim Bolus recounts some of the crowning moments at Churchill Downs. From the first official race in 1875 to today's Derby, these stories present the beginnings of the traditions that continue to make up the Derby's history. Amusing, and inspiring, Kentucky Derby Stories is a reminiscent look back for aficionados and a glimpse at a piece of Americana for newcomers. ABOUT THE AUTHOR The late Jim Bolus, who attended his 37th Kentucky Derby in 1996, hadn't missed the race in more than 20 years. Dubbed a "Doctor of Derbyology" by one newspaper reporter, Bolus also wrote Derby Dreams, Remembering the Derby, Derby Fever, and Derby Magic, all published by Pelican.

--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

The late Jim Bolus, who attended his thirtieth Kentucky Derby in 1996, hadn't missed the race in more than twenty years. Dubbed a "Doctor of Derbyology" by one newspaper reporter, Bolus also wrote Derby Fever, Remembering the Derby, Kentucky Derby Stories, and Derby Magic, all published by Pelican. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 212 pages
• Publisher: Pelican Publishing Company (April 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0882899848
• ISBN-13: 978-0882899848
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.7 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,301,711 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars For All Kentucky Derby Fans, August 20, 2000

By 

Susan Nunes (Medford, OR United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Kentucky Derby Stories (Paperback)

This book, one of five in a series, was written by the late, great Jim Bolus, "Mr. Kentucky Derby." He also frequently wrote articles in the annual Kentucky Derby souvenir magazine. Bolus knew EVERY conceivable bit of trivia about the race. He wrote about the horses, the history of the race, the people behind the scenes.

Included in this volume is a chapter on Affirmed and Alydar, a chapter on Col. Matt Winn, the man who made the Kentucky Derby what it is today, a chapter on black jockeys, a chapter on Ben Jones, and a wonderful chapter on the worst horses to run in the Derby.

EVERY fan should have this and the other four books.

5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting!, July 5, 2011

By 

Barbara K. Kohl "Barbi" (Pittsburgh, PA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Kentucky Derby Stories (Hardcover)

I got this for my husband for Father's Day from one of his sons as he is so into horse racing as a sport (not betting) and he loved it!

7 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!! Five Stars!!, May 10, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Kentucky Derby Stories (Paperback)

This book is excellant for all who are fans of the Derby. It is a great book, I couldn't put it down. It has great info. on the derby's history. Take time to read it!!!