Over the Hurdles:The History of Jumping Racing in Australia

Discover the fascinating journey of 'Over the Hurdles: The History of Jumping Racing in Australia,' an essential read for fans of Australian sports and history. Authored by John Adams, this landmark book chronicles the evolution of jumping racing in Australia from its inception at the first Sydney steeplechase in 1832 to its present-day challenges. With 304 pages filled with engaging stories about legendary horses, daring jockeys, and iconic racecourses, this book serves as a comprehensive guide and celebration of jumps racing.

Through dynamic storytelling, Adams unveils colorful tales of amateur versus professional jockeys, pivotal races that shaped the sport, and controversies that left their mark on history. Readers will dive into astonishing accounts, such as how a notorious criminal attempted to sabotage the 1924 Grand National, and how celebrated poet Adam Lindsay Gordon created history with three wins in one day. Furthermore, Adams highlights the deep connections between Australia and Ireland, the birthplace of jumps racing, and reveals how the jubilant spirit of the sport has survived numerous adversities over the years.

Packed with vivid illustrations and historical insights, 'Over the Hurdles' spotlights champions like Redleap, Mosstrooper, and Crisp, whose legacies continue to inspire new generations. This book is not just a tribute to the past; it enhances the appreciation for Australian jumps racing in today’s vibrant sporting culture. Perfect for both casual readers and serious collectors, this narrative is a significant contribution to Australian sporting literature. Get your copy now and embrace the thrilling world of jumping racing in Australia! Enjoy FREE shipping on your purchase.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781877096327
Format: Paper over boards
Year: 2012
Publisher: Black Inc
Pages: 304


Description:
John Adamss Over the Hurdles tells the remarkable story of jumping in Australia, from the first Sydney steeplechase in 1832 to the sports controversial battle for survival in recent years. In this first-ever history of jumping racing in Australia, Adams leads us on a beguiling tour of the horses, jockeys, racecourses, characters, and controversies of the past 180 years.

The book recounts how professional jockeys came to replace amateur gentlemen riders; how the sport boomed in its heyday, when Melbourne alone held 120 races a year; how the infamous criminal Squizzy Taylor tried to poison the 1924 Grand National favourite; how famed poet, Adam Lindsay Gordon rode a record three winners over the hurdles in one day; how a desperate crowd once killed a dishonest bookmaker at Flemington; how the sport strengthened ties between Australia and Ireland, the spiritual home of jumping; and how the falls, injuries, and deaths threatened its survival.

The book captures the thrilling, courageous spirit of jumps racing. Riders, whether successful or not, universally state that there is no feeling like competing in a jumping race, whether they win or run last. But at the heart of Adamss history lie the deeds of magnificent horses that carried their jockeys to victory time and time again despite being burdened by large weights. Redleap, Mosstrooper, Mountain God, Winterset, and Crisp earned mythical status in their eras, and Over the Hurdles ensures their achievements will never be forgotten. The Australian horses, jockeys and trainers have international reputations, but deserve wider appreciation in Australia. Over the Hurdles is a significant contribution to jumping racing, and to Australian sport as a whole.

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