In 1964, Arkle's  first-place finish  in the Cheltenham Gold Cup  was  the first big  win by  Ireland's most  celebrated  racehorse: the horse  by which  all others are measured. Fifty years on from  the start of his incredible career - which included wins in  the Cheltenham Gold Cup (three times), Irish Grand National, Hennessy Gold Cup, King George VI Chase and Punchestown Gold Cup  -  Anne Holland looks at Arkle's  life and legend through the eyes of those who knew him best .She  describes  Arkle's career,  his  incredible wins,  and the  people involved with him , interviewing many of his connections, including  Jim Dreaper, Paddy Woods, Tom Taaffe, sculptor Emma McDermott, the Baker family and others .   Arkle was a star - the story goes that he received items of fan mail addressed to 'Himself, Ireland' -  and th is is a well-researched and intimate portrait of a  legendary horse.Shortlisted for Horse Racing Book of the Year 2014, British Sports Book Awards