The Horses of My Life - Richard Dunwoody

Book excerpt: Richard Dunwoody was the most successful steeplechase jockey of his time. During his fantastic career, he rode over 10,000 times, often partnering the top National Hunt horses such as Desert Orchid and Miinnehoma. His staggering collection of 1,699 wins in Britain has earned him professional respect and a string of accolades including an MBE.In this fascinating book, Dunwoody remembers the great horses he has ridden and the high points of his remarkable career. In 1986 he rode to victory in the Grand National on West Tip and repeated this triumph in 1994 on Miinnehoma. It was with One Man that he won two consecutive King George VI chases. Although his career was full of memorable partnerships and victories, it is for riding Desert Orchid that Dunwoody is best remembered. 'Dessie' was a hugely popular horse - apart from Red Rum, he was the only racehorse with a fan club - and the pair rode their way to a remarkable seven victories. Yet despite his big race victories, his determination and ambition remained constant, driving him on to even greater achievements.In a book full of stories, anecdotes and opinions, Richard tells not only of the glory surrounding his career but also of the hard work involved in achieving that glory: the struggle to ensure that both horse and rider were at their peak on race day; the pitfalls and the setbacks endured; and the quirks and characteristics of some of the finest horses in this tough sport.