CHAMPION HORSES

An Illustrated History of Flat Racing, Steeplechasing, and Trotting Races

by Maurizio Bongianni

with illustrations by Piero Cozzaglio.

 1984 Edition published by Bonanza Books, NY, NY
Author Maurizio Bongianni explains the history of three different types of horse racing - flat racing, both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse, steeplechase, and Harness racing. Each section follows the history of its champions featuring the most famous horses from every era, accompanied by magnificent color illustrations and pedigree tables. Information on racing colors, the world's most important racecourses, and the championship records of the most prestigious races. 

Featured horses include: SECRETARIAT, EXCELLER, ALYDAR, MAN O'WAR, OLEANDER, TOURBILLON, HYPERION, ROUND TABLE, NEARCO, NATIVE DANCER, RIBOT, SEA BIRD, BUCKPASSER, ROYAL PALACE, DAHLIA, ALLEGED, PHALARIS, THE TETRARCH, AFFIRMED, SPECTACULAR BID, DASH FOR CASH, MESSENGER, HAMBLETONIAN, GREYHOUND, BRET HANOVER, NIATROSS, NEVELE PRIDE, PAHETON, BELLINO II, PERMIT, TORNESE, and many others.

A beautiful book loaded with information and the illustrations by Piero Cozzaglio alone are worth the price of this book and an invaluable reference for equestrian artists. 

 Hardcover in very good condition with dust jacket with some wear, tear and soiling but over good condition, 256 pages. Large book 10 x 11 1/2 x 1 in.  All corners are sharp and square and are not bumped, no inscriptions, bookplates, writing nor marks. Very generously illustrated with over 250 color images, drawings of racecourses and jumps along with several pages of racing colors. Beautifully illustrated endpapers. There is also a Glossary and a well organized Index.