Subject
Horse racing -- Great Britain Books
Best books
James Glass Bertram
A Mirror of the Turf; Or, The Machinery of Horse-Racing Revealed, Showing the Sport of Kings as It Is To-Day
"A Mirror of the Turf; Or, The Machinery of Horse-Racing Revealed" by Louis Henry Curzon is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book examines the world of horse racing, specifically focusing on the systems, politics, and economic factors involved in what is often referred to as the "Sport of Kings." It provides insights into the realities behind racing, including the gambling practices that permeate the sport and the various players involved, such as trainers, jockeys, and bookmakers. At the start of this volume, the author establishes clear boundaries for his exploration of horse racing, emphasizing that the text is not meant to be a profession-oriented guide for those in the industry but rather a reflection intended for the general public's enlightenment. Curzon touches upon the significant impact of horse racing on society, explicitly stating that the darker aspects of the sport, including fraud and commercialism, will be highlighted. This sets the stage for a critical examination of horse racing as a business and cultural phenomenon, where the allure of gambling overshadows the traditional sporting spirit.
Unknown
Sporting Society; or, Sporting Chat and Sporting Memories, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"Sporting Society; or, Sporting Chat and Sporting Memories, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by Russell et al. is a collection of essays and anecdotes related to various aspects of sporting life, written in the late 19th century. The text delves into a range of sports including hunting, shooting, and fishing, reflecting on traditions and practices across generations. Through humorous and personal narratives, the collection captures not only the experiences of different sportsmen but also the evolving nature of sports and societal attitudes towards them. At the start of the book, the editor, Fox Russell, reflects nostalgically on the state of hunting, contrasting the hardy past with the more fashionable and less vigorous present. He bemoans the changes in hunting culture and practices over the decades, hinting at a decline in genuine sporting spirit amidst the accouterments of modernity. The opening portion also introduces various subsequent sections that promise a mix of practical advice and lighthearted reflections, setting a tone that seeks to entertain as well as inform readers about the rich tapestry of sporting life from times gone by.
Unknown
Sporting Society; or, Sporting Chat and Sporting Memories, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"Sporting Society; or, Sporting Chat and Sporting Memories, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by Russell et al. is a collection of humorous and anecdotal writings focusing on sporting activities, likely published in the late 19th century. The book covers a variety of themes related to field sports, offering insights and memories from various writers involved in the sporting community. Topics such as hunting, fishing, and shooting are discussed alongside whimsical tales and practical notes, making it a rich resource for sports enthusiasts. The opening of this volume begins with an essay on the influence of field sports on character, suggesting that participation in activities like fox-hunting cultivates traits like decision-making, self-dependence, and energy. The narrative vividly illustrates how characters are shaped by the experiences encountered while partaking in these pursuits. Following this, snippets of angling methods and humorous anecdotes are introduced, showcasing the intertwining of sporting knowledge and personal reflection. These early sections aim to set a tone blending education and entertainment in the realm of outdoor sports.
Recently surfaced classics