Norman III was owned by August Belmont whose father had been a leading figure in the American racing world, starting the racecourse at Saratoga. Following in his father's footsteps he opened the famous Belmont Park Racecourse in 1905 and was appointed the first Chairman of the New York Jockey Club, a position he held for thirty years. In 1908 legislation prohibiting gambling in America was being widely enforced, which may explain Norman III's presence in England. The horse was by Octagon out of Nineveh, and was bred in the United States. He won twice as a two-year-old, including the Exeter Stakes at Newmarket. Winning the Guineas with ease his first time out as a three-year-old, he then started the 1908 Derby as joint favourite but failed to live up to expectations. He went on to win the Newmarket St Leger and the Free Handicap before returning as a five-year-old to America.

Otto Madden was born in Germany where his English father was a respected jockey. He was champion jockey four times and later became a trainer.

We are grateful to David Oldrey for his help in preparing this entry.