Although horse racing started in the seventeenth century, high-level horse racing didn't come to Illinois until 1909. The history of horse racing in Illinois was largely due to families in the horse racing industry. Included is some of the glorious history of famous tracks: Hawthorne, Arlington, and Sportsman's Park.

Although horse racing started in the seventeenth century, high-level horse racing didnt come to Illinois until 1909. The history of horse racing in Illinois was largely due to families in the horse racing industry. Included is some of the glorious history of famous tracks: Hawthorne, Arlington, and Sportsmans Park.

This fun and witty exposé of horse racing in America goes behind the scenes at the track, providing a serious gambler's-eye view of the action. Ted McClelland spent a year at tracks and off-track betting facilities in Chicago and across the country, profiling the people who make a career of gambling on horses. This account follows his personal journey of what it means to be a horseplayer as he gambles with his book advance using various betting and handicapping strategies along the way. A colourful cast of characters is introduced, including the intensely disciplined Scott McMannis, "The Professor," a one-time college instructor who now teaches a course in handicapping, and Mary Schoenfeldt, a former nun and gifted handicapper who donates all of her winnings to charity. This moving account of wins, losses, and personal turmoil provides a realistic look at gamblers, gambling, and life at the track.