From the front flap:
From photo finishes to the long-shot money winners, the Kentucky Derby is an American institution that thrives on the excitement of sport. And just like its counterparts-the Superbowl, the World Series, and the Indy 500-there are legends and stories to be told that exemplify the fervor that begins in Lexington 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, 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 of the victory, Bolus takes note of the most memorable horses decorating the winner's 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 Bolus and his stories introduce.
A horse racing historian, author Bolus is a native of the Bluegrass State who has not missed a Derby since he was sixteen years old. His love for the race inspired him to interview past and present jockeys, owners, trainers, and fans and record many of the unique aspects of the Derby's history.
