With a solid string of wins at the Portland Meadows, sixteen-year-old Trish Evanston has quickly become the wonder jockey at the Oregon racetrack. And despite her mother's worries about Trish's grades and the slippery track conditions, her father makes their nomination for the upcoming Santa Anita Derby and then the Kentucky Derby. Just the thought of riding in these races is almost too much for Trish to dream!

But after a wonderful family Christmas, it appears that everything is conspiring to keep them away from the Santa Anita Derby. Troubles with Spitfire, nature, and Trish's family are further complicated when she herself has an accident!

How can so many things go wrong so fast? Is there any chance of getting Spitfire ready for the big race?

It looks like Trish will miss the biggest opportunity of her life. . . .