Of High Weights And Low Weights: 125 Years Of Futurity Stakes
Australian History Sports History Young Adult Non-Fiction Horse Racing Equestrian Sports Animals & Pets
Of High Weights And Low Weights: 125 Years Of Futurity Stakes is the only modern, fully-illustrated chronicle of Australia’s most famous two-year-old thoroughbred race. Historian-journalist Marc Fiddian distils a century-and-a-quarter of Melbourne’s autumn classic—from 1898 when Auraria carried the first “light weight” to today’s weight-for-age stars—into 148 fast-moving pages. Every chapter pairs archival black-and-white photos with concise race summaries, trainer quotes and weight tables, so readers can compare champions across eras without wading through dense turf encyclopedias.
Collectors value the book’s clean, unmarked paperback format: tightly-bound spine, crisp pages, no inscriptions or dog-ears, and stored in a smoke-free home since its 2023 release. Because the Futurity Stakes has shaped Australian racing policy on apprentice allowances, handicap scales and even the Melbourne Cup ballot, the title doubles as a pocket reference for racing clubs and betting historians. Young adults studying sports management or equine studies will appreciate the clear explanations of how “high weights” (up to 64 kg) and “low weights” (as little as 43 kg) influenced tactics, breeding choices and public attendance.
Whether you’re a horse-racing enthusiast, a hobby historian or simply hunting a unique Australian gift, this well-preserved first edition offers instant shelf appeal and lasting research value. Search keywords: Futurity Stakes history, Australian horse racing book, Melbourne racetrack memorabilia, Marc Fiddian author, illustrated racing reference.
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