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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fascinating read., 10 April 2001
By A Customer
Royal Racing is an entertaining account of the history of royal racehorse ownership. But it is much more than a book about horse racing. Racing is a world of its own, a microcosm of society, from the stable lads who look after the horses to the Queen and Queen Mother themselves. In between you have the dedicated trainers, jockeys and their families, all of whom have amazing stories to tell. Sean Smith has interviewed the key characters in the racing careers of the Queen and Queen Mother to piece together a rich and engaging story, from the social whirl of Fairlawne, home of trainer Peter Cazalet, to life at Saxon Lodge, with the irrepressible Fulke Walwyn...and much more. Some of the best stories include: * how the Queen Mother saved the crushed leg of a royal jockey, then danced with him while he was hip to toe in plaster; * how the Queen sat on the floor at a party (no!) and cracked open a creme brulee with her high heeled shoe; * how a mysterious and beautiful woman succeeded in doping a royal horse before a major race; * how a horse condemned to the knacker's yard by the Queen's racing manager was saved by Ian Balding and went on to win a race in Balding's colours...ridden by Princess Anne! * how the Queen and her racing manager sensationally sacked trainer Dick Hern while he was seriously ill in hospital. Altogether, Royal Racing a very enjoyable book, which gives a rare insight into a world often perceived as elitist and privileged and will appeal to racing enthusiasts, royal fans and anyone who enjoys a good story!
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