Speed and the Thoroughbred: The Complete History
This unexpected treasure comes from one of the equine world's most respected authors and students of history—published two years after his death in 1998 at the age of 95. While many books have detailed the evolution of the Thoroughbred, in his final work Mackay-Smith takes a different angle in reviewing the origin of sprinting speed within the breed. The longtime editor ofThe Chronicle of the Horsemagazine spent a decade researching, compiling, writing, and editing. The result is a posthumous masterpiece. This slim, slightly oversized volume is lushly illustrated in both black and white and color. (Mary SimonThoroughbred Times)Mackay-Smith's scholarly endeavor isn't just history, though. He raises a number of questions about the breeding of all kinds of horses that are as pertinent today as they were 400 years ago. (John StrassburgerChronicle Of The Horse)In relating the enthralling history of the origins of the thoroughbred, Mackay-Smith gives all horse lovers - not just racing enthusiasts - a fuller appreciation of the modern equine athlete. (Faquier Times-Democrat)During his lifetime, Alexander Mackay-Smith contributed to sporting art and the sporting horse world in countless ways through his many books and as editor ofThe Chronicle of the Horse.The late Mackay-Smith's book,Speed and the Thoroughbred,contains 32 fine color prints and 28 black and white illustrations in a new edition. (Equine Times)Lovers of fine art will appreciate the illustrations that give this masterpiece of research incredible visual appeal. (In and Around Horse Country)