A collection of excerpts from the best of racing literature. The contents stretch from the early days to modern times. It looks at horses from Gimcrack to Desert Orchid, jockeys from Fred Archer to Lester Piggott, and trainers such as the Hon George Lambton and Henry Cecil. The articles are wide-ranging and eclectic, looking at subjects as diverse as the life of a stable lad, the Gentle Art of Tipping, and making a handicap. John Hislop, owner-breeder of Brigadier Gerard, is an active member of the Jockey Club. David Swannell spent 27 years as a handicapper, and has been Clerk of the Course at Beverley, Wetherby and Thirsk.