This annual Bible of racing statistics is back after a hiatus of 6 years. Publisher Steve Crist made returning the Manual to its former self a top priority when he took over the Daily Racing Form in 1998 and he has done an admirable job. The 1,608 page volume covers racing for 1999 and incorporates most of the favorite features of the previous versions. The 2001 edition which will cover racing for 2000 will be released later this year.

This edition includes full charts for all graded races in 1999, past performances for all graded stakes winners, world and North American records, all-time leading money earners, jockey, trainer, and owner stats, track diagrams and info for all North American tracks, plus much more. The only real disappointment I had was that the full stakes histories were given only for Grade 1 races rather than all stakes races as in the older volumes, however the 2001 edition will include all graded races which will be a big improvement. The shortness of the "Year in Review" section was also a bit of a let down as was the almost total lack of photos. An nice improvement over the older editions was the inclusion of lifetime past performances for great horses of the 20th century rather than the summary charts the past volumes used.

If you are looking for statistics on speeds, Beyer figures, wagering, auctions, track records, or just about anything else statistical regarding horse racing you can imagine, it is likely in this book. Also included are informational sections like the "Rules of Racing" and a directory of racing organizations. It truly is an invaluable resource for research in many areas.

Some may find the price a bit steep at $60, but you get what you pay for. Also, if you buy the 2000 edition before March 31st you can get the 2001 edition for 50% off. You can buy this book online from the DRF Press online store or via telephone at 800-306-FORM or compare prices at mySimon

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