Remembering the Derby

This collection of folksy articles by the author of Kentucky Derby Stories contains some new material and a few pieces reprinted from Bolus's column in the Daily Racing Form . He views the Derby as the most prestigious race in the world, which few would dispute, and he writes of the people who have helped give it such significance. Bolus covers trainers like Woody Stephens, owners like Elizabeth Arden and Fred Hooper, racing official Keene Daingerfield and writers like Joe Hirsch and the witty Mike Barry, who commented on a Derby entry, ``This horse needs only one thing--slower competition.'' The notable equines discussed include Sir Barton, the first triple Crown winner; Silky Sullivan, the most over-publicized loser in Derby history; Affirmed, whose battles with Alydar were the stuff of legend; Northern Dancer, the indefatigable stud. Followers of the Sport of Kings will find the book irresistible. Photos not seen by PW. (Apr.)