Kentucky Derby Stories - Tapa blanda

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 of fans back time and time again.

Sportswriter and Derby historian Jim Bolus recounts some of the crowning moments at Churchill Downs. From the first official race in 1875 to the modern-day contests, these stories present the beginnings of traditions that continue to make up the Derby's history. Included in this collection are:

The Derby's Founding Father: Colonel Clark: He was the founder of the Downs and the Kentucky Derby, the man responsible for launching this event on the road to its current status as America's most celebrated horse race.

Those Second-Stringers Stand Tall: Always overshadowed by the lead horse of the stable, these heroic steeds were the underestimated long shots who strode past the glory of their highly favored stablemates.

History Does Repeat Itself: The Triple Crown races of 1990 were a carbon copy of the 1960 Triple Crown Classics. This uncanny similarity may prove that other races to come may seem like reruns of another era.

The Derby's Dirty Dozen: The Derby has drawn some awfully poor runners. This story profiles the twelve worst starters ever to compete in the race.

Amusing, and inspiring, Kentucky Derby Stories is a reminiscent look back for aficionados and a glimpse at a piece of Americana for newcomers.

An authority on the subject, the late Jim Bolus was a sportswriter for The Courier-Journal in Louisville for more than twenty years. His articles have appeared in Sports Illustrated as well as numerous racing magazines around the world. Prior to his death, he was Kentucky Derby curator of the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs.

His passion for the "Run for the Roses" and its traditions led Bolus to write Remembering the Derby, Derby Fever, Derby Dreams, and Derby Magic, all published by Pelican.