This book takes an unadorned look at all aspects of owning racehorses. Topics range from purchase options to financial obligations to medication rules and veterinary bills.

In racing, how and where to start, who to turn to for advice, and how much it costs, are questions without easy answers. Cot Campbell of Dogwood Stable demystifies the Thoroughbred ownership process through a unique combination of how-to guide and autobiography. Indispensable for newcomers to the business and not to be missed by those already in it.

"The author describes the handicapping of thoroughbred horse races, covering such factors as the use of computers, what to watch before a race, and the best jockeys and horse trainers. He also explains 60 ways to build a betting system"--Library of Congress description

Prior to joining the Western Horseman staff, Fran Devereux Smith, an associate editor with the magazine, spent a number of years training horses and giving riding instruction. In writing First Horse, she relied on her teaching experience with riders of all ages and her work as a 4-H horse project leader. Fran has a broad-based background in the equine industry. A lifelong horsewoman, she grew up trail riding and showing horses regionally -- primarily in reining, western pleasure, horsemanship, and barrel racing, with some experience in halter and showmanship. A high school rodeo competitor, Fran also was a member of her intercollegiate rodeo team, winning a regional barrel racing championship and qualifying for the College National Finals Rodeo in that event and goat tying. Along the way, she was named Miss Rodeo Arkansas and won a girls rodeo association all-around title that same year. Since then, Fran has earned a state Quarter Horse association reining championship, showed in hunt-seat classes, and team penned. She has ridden trails in 20 states, worked some cattle along the way, driven a wagon team from time to time, and served as an officer or board member for several equine organizations. Book jacket.

Containing full pedigree of all the imported thorough-bred stallions and mares, with their produce.

The Horse Racing Manual guides the reader through a first day at the races, explaining all the elements and considerations, from what to wear to placing a bet. Unlike other books on the market, it takes the reader further and goes ‘behind the scenes,’ providing explanations into the physiology of the horse and where it comes from, the processes and people involved in leading it to become a racehorse, the breeders, farriers, owners, trainers, jockeys and more.