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Summary: An appreciation of steeplechasing
Review: Steeplechasing is the alternative to flat racing in Ireland (where it was invented) and Britain, but has not generally flourished elsewhere. France, Australia, New Zealand and America are among other countries where it takes place, although the format is sometimes different. Hence, this book is mostly about British racing.It is divided into three main sections - for the races, the people and the horses. The section on the races covers the Grand National at Aintree, the very first steeplechase in Ireland and chapters on hurdling, point to point races, military races and timber races. Timber races are the American equivalent, so that chapter discusses the Maryland Hunt Cup and attempts to introduce such races into England with a race called the Marlborough Cup. Since the book was published, this race has never been run again. The section on people covers the Queen Mother, Vincent O'Brien (best remembered for his flat racing triumphs but an incredible trainer of steeplechasers in the fifties), Martin Pipe and a few other important trainers. The section on horses covers Arkle, Golden Miller, Red Rum, Dawn Run and Desert Orchid among others. The book is lavishly illustrated but it is certainly not comprehensive - there is no mention anywhere of Tingle Creek, one of the most popular steeplechasers ever. There is no statistics section either, though there are plenty of books full of who won what race in what year. The book's title (A celebration) indicates its contents, and as a celebration of steeplechasing, it works well, but anybody wanting to study its history in depth should look elsewhere.
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