Warriors on Horseback

A remarkable and riveting insight into the lives of jockeys. Jockeys who earn a living race riding on racehorses are a remarkable group. They are fiercely competitive on the racecourse but enjoy a tribal kinship in the weighing room. The minimum requirements for long-term success are courage, skill, athleticism and an intuitive understanding of how to 'get a tune' out of a horse. This book celebrates these warriors on horseback, both the old and the new, highlighting the headline performers for jump racing and flat racing in the last five centuries - male and female and from around the globe - as well as taking the reader on a behind-the-scenes look at the lifestyle of professional jockeys in the 21st century. Top jockeys covered include Bill Shoemaker, Eddie Arcaro, Frabkie Dettori, Isaac Murphy, Julie Krone, Lester Piggott, Ruby Walsh, Scobie Breasley, Tony McCoy and John Francome. The book is interspersed with events in the history of horseracing where jockeys have made the headlines, including: Fred Archer, who committed suicide in the mists of mental and physical misery; The scandal of jockey Sam Chifney, Lord Bunbury and the Prince of Wales; Captain Becher and his attempt to negotiate Aintree's formidable fences during the Grand National's inaugural running; Red Pollard who transformed the fortunes of the great American horse, Seabiscuit; Ron Turncotte's triumphs on the great Secretariat to win America's Triple Crown; Bob Champion, who recovered from cancer to win the Grand National; Glen Boss's hat trick of wins on 'The Diva' in the Melbourne Cup; Frankie Dettori's magnificent seven wins in one day at Ascot. The book features quotes and insights from eminent jockeys and racing insiders, people who know the profession and the sport; and will be illustrated with captivating images from the world of horseracing. Foreword by Bob Champion, former jump jockey and Grand National winner.