In Full Flight

Ever wondered why the 1970s is considered the golden age of UK hurdling? This book tells the story of an extraordinary generation of hurdlers who emerged within a single decade. Discover the epic rivalries that enthralled the public and how horses such as Night Nurse became household names – through a treasure trove of enthralling tales. In Full Flight is the untold story of the golden age of UK hurdling, spanning 1968 to 1981. This was a period when eight of the 12 highest rated hurdlers of all time competed, producing the strongest Champion Hurdle field ever seen, the sport’s highest-ever rating, four dual champions, a three?time winner and some of the greatest rivalries, both on and off the course. The book brings this extraordinary era to life through a treasure trove of enthralling tales. Learn about the over-intrusive owner of Persian War, the initial scepticism surrounding Bula, the intrigue behind Comedy of Errors’ purchase, the tactical masterplan for Lanzarote and Night Nurse’s invincible season. It tells the rags to riches tale of Monksfield, of Sea Pigeon’s brilliance as the greatest dual-code horse, plus the poignant story of Golden Cygnet – a talent cut short, yet remembered as a horse that might have been the greatest of them all.