The Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes: A Comprehensive History
The first Saturday in May has become synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, and winning the Triple Crown remains one of the most elusive feats in sports. Yet when the Belmont, Preakness, and Kentucky Derby first began, they were just three horse races with no connection to each other. The Belmont began in 1867,  followed by the Preakness in 1873 and the Kentucky Derby in 1875. The term Triple Crown was coined in 1930, when Gallant Fox won all three races (although Sir Barton was the first to do so, in 1919). This work covers the history of these three iconic races and how they have been linked together. The work is divided into 16 chapters, beginning with “1867–1869: A Ruthless Beginning” and ending with “2010–13: The Long Drought Continues.” Arranged chronologically (starting in 1867, when the filly Ruthless won the first Belmont), the sections include a history of the races; the best horse that year; a famous jockey, trainer, owner, or stable; and stats about the races themselves: the top finishers, length of race, and betting. Black-and-white photographs are included in some sections.“Appendix I: Résumés” offers information on various horses, jockeys, trainers, and breeders. “Appendix II: A Racing Miscellany” covers wagering, classic placed horses, and offspring of the three Thoroughbred foundation sires. A bibliography of sources and an index complete this work, which will appeal to readers interested in horses, horse racing, and the Triple Crown races. Recommended for public and academic libraries. --Abbie Landry