Arkle: The Legend of 'Himself' - Tapa dura

It was pleasing to read that Arkle, and Pat Taaffe, are to be immortalised in bronze in Ashbourne, Co Meath, by sculptress Emma MacDermott. I hope the statue will be as fitting a tribute to a true equine superstar as Holland's book deserves to be -- Kingsley Klarion Holland is to be congratulated on unearthing a trove of anecdotes and opinions which lend the book a real vitality. Jim Dreaper, son of Arkle's trainer Tom, has written the foreword and acknowledges that much of the information she has unearthed is new to him -- Kingsley Klarion the memories evoked by Holland in this excellent new work on Arkle's illustrious career are such that the mind's eye sees them afresh in glorious Technicolor -- Kingsley Klarion very entertaining ... terrific book -- The Pat Kenny Show it wasn't just racing fans that loved Arkle - and it won't be just racing fans that will enjoy this book -- Westmeath Examiner just how special Arkle was is spelled out in glorious detail -- Westmeath Examiner Holland pulls off with aplomb the difficult task of writing about an animal without lapsing into anthropomorphic sentimentality. Throughout her book, Arkle remains a horse - but what a horse! -- The Lady an enjoyable and engaging read -- Horse and Hound [the] author has uncovered quite a few new anecdotes -- Ireland's Own retelling of the story is timely -- The Irish Field The Irish Field readers will enjoy [Anne Holland's] book on the mighty Arkle -- The Irish Field illuminating -- Irish Examiner a wonderful reminder -- The Irish Echo

In 1964 Arkle's win in the Cheltenham Gold Cup marked the start of an incredible campaign by Ireland’s most legendary racehorse: the horse why which all others are measured. Fifty years on from his incredible wins, including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Irish Grand National, Hennessy Gold Cup, King George VI Chase and Punchestown Gold Cup, Anne Holland looks at Arkle’s legendary success, which have never been surpassed. Often referred to simply as ‘Himself’, the story goes that he received items of fan mail addressed to ‘Himself, Ireland’.

Anne Holland’s biography outlines Arkle's career, incredible wins, people involved with him including Jim Dreaper, Paddy Woods, Tom Taffe, sculptor Emma MacDermott, the Baker family, and others, and the ongoing interest in this legendary horse.

Praise for Winners All
'tells each story with clarity and is well worth its place in any racing aficionado’s library'
Sky Sports