Ballad Of The Irish Horse; Thoroughbred Heroes

Ballad of the Irish Horse is a lovely look at a 40 mph, 1/2 ton of pure equine beauty. Weaving together poetry, charming music from the Irish band The Chieftains, and witty narrative, the filmmakers trace the origins of the Irish horse and its impact on the present Irish economy (horse exports accounting for some 2 million pounds per year!) Filmed highlights include the Irish Sweeps Derby, racing at Leopardstown, the National Hunt Riders, and showjumping at Ballsbridge. The second title, Thoroughbred Heroes, features footage of some of the greatest racing horses of the past quarter century: Citation, Swaps, Round Table, Northern Dancer, Native Diver, Majestic Prince, Silky Sullivan (who turned in a number of brilliant come-from-behind victories), and Triple Crown winner Secretariat. The soundtrack, though acceptable, is a bit awkward-the narrator tracks supplant, rather than blend in with, the background racing soundtrack. The first title is recommended, the second with its catalog (as opposed to story) approach is more for true horse buffs, and therefore not a necessary purchase. (Available from: The Discovery Trail, 1629 Pollasky, Ste. 105, Clovis, CA 93612.)