Out of the thrilling victories and agonizing defeats of over 100 Derby races, the editors of the Blood-Horse
magazine, the weekly horse-racing publication, have selected what they believe are the 10 best, a loose measure that runs the gamut from Cinderella stories to spectacular, controversial home stretch runs or dazzling feats. For example, they tell how, in 1973, Secretariat, who had been winning easily all year, stumbled in the pre-Derby Wood Memorial. Even though he entered the Derby as the favorite, some doubted he could overcome his previous loss. Yet Secretariat won the Derby easily, posting the fastest time ever in the race with a remarkable 1:59 2/5. Then there's the tale of how, in 1971, a horse with a crooked leg, Canonero II, came from 20 lengths behind to win the roses and make Derby history. Other Derbies, such as the 1978 race between Affirmed and Alydar, featured close contests between two fast rivals. While the prose of some stories shivers with excitement, most of the writing tediously announces the races. The editors never explicitly indicate why these 10 races should be considered the "best" Kentucky Derbies, making this book more like a random collection of popular favorites. (Apr.)
