Book excerpt: In "A Real Life Exacta: Bourbon & 83 Kentucky Derbies," the author pulls back the curtain on the history of horse racing, chronicling a lifelong passion that began more than eight decades ago. This illuminating Kentucky Derby book is steeped in rich tradition, offering readers a vibrant narrative that intimately showcases Kentucky Derby history. It's an exceptional dive into American horse racing, narrated by a man who has been a part of the Derby's fabric for an astounding 83 consecutive years. The book's narrative stretches back to the author's childhood when his familial love for horse racing was ignited. With the turn of each page, the reader is closer to the very heart of the Derby experience, revealing tales that only true Kentucky Derby fans would appreciate. Anecdotes, triumphs, challenges, and a host of horse racing stories are colorfully narrated, along with a plethora of candid photos and family legacies that lend added depth and texture. This autobiography is as much a chronicle of the author's life as it is a reflection of his enduring love for the Derby. It weaves in and out of significant life events and gives the reader a vivid picture of a unique lifestyle shaped around the most exhilarating two minutes in sports. Readers are granted a ringside seat to a journey that transformed a young boy into a fervent supporter who, since his first Derby, has been captivated by the sport's allure. Considered among the most inspirational autobiographies, the book underscores the author's determination to master every nuance of horse racing and leave a tangible legacy for his family. His resilience in the face of life's good and bad moments is narrated with honesty and steadfast resolve. "A Real Life Exacta: Bourbon & 83 Kentucky Derbies" is a must-read for those who relish true stories and are drawn to biographies that offer more than just a glimpse into a fascinating life. Similar to "Beating the Odds," it is a testament to a man's unwavering dedication to his passion and an extraordinary chronicle of a quintessential American pastime.