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 Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
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Product Description
People around the world have found inspiration in the story of Lance Armstrong--a world-class athlete nearly struck down by cancer, only to recover and win the Tour de France, the multiday bicycle race famous for its gruelling intensity. Armstrong is a thoroughgoing Texan jock, and the changes brought to his life by his illness are startling and powerful, but he's just not interested in wearing a hero suit. While his vocabulary is a bit on the he-man side (highest compliment to his wife: "she's a stud"), his actions will melt the most hard-bitten souls: a cancer foundation and benefit bike ride, his astonishing commitment to training that got him past countless hurdles, loyalty to the people and corporations that never gave up on him. There's serious medical detail here, which may not be for the faint of heart; from chemo to surgical procedures to his wife's in vitro fertilization, you won't be spared a single x-ray, IV drip, or unfortunate side effect. Athletes and coaches everywhere will benefit from the same extraordinary detail provided about training sessions--every aching tendon, every rainy afternoon, and every small triumph during his long recovery is here in living colour. It's Not About the Bike is the perfect title for this book about life, death, illness, family, setbacks, and triumphs, but not especially about the bike. --Jill Lightner, Amazon.com
Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
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Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
Disappointing, 14 Oct 2008
A disappointing book for me. Having read a few excellent sporting books by Richard Moore and Matt Rendell about modern professional cycling I had hopes that this would provide some insights into the new wave of talent and the way in which cycling is heading. Sadly no. The description of the recent Olympic races were absorbing and passionate (all three stars are for the tail end of the book!), however the rest is rather dull. A chronological list of events and encountered people without any real analysis to give a deeper understanding. The death of Wiggins' father hangs over the book too heavily, and the drinking binges are not that interesting to read about even if they are things that Bradley is trying to work through. For a real understanding of the spectacular success of Britain's track cyclists read Moore's 'Heroes, Villains and Velodromes'. I love Wiggins as a cyclist and one day I'm sure that he will deserve a biography to be written, but this one is too soon and incomplete. It reeks of all those footballers 'auto'biographies, cashing in on current glories.
Brilliant Read, 07 Oct 2008
This is a book not just for cycling fans but anyone interested in sport and also human relationships. I cant rate this book highly enough it draws in a frank and full way on Bradleys diffcult personal circumstances and how he acheived the success he so rightly enjoys today. This is the book of a champion not to be missed!
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Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
Disappointing, 14 Oct 2008
A disappointing book for me. Having read a few excellent sporting books by Richard Moore and Matt Rendell about modern professional cycling I had hopes that this would provide some insights into the new wave of talent and the way in which cycling is heading. Sadly no. The description of the recent Olympic races were absorbing and passionate (all three stars are for the tail end of the book!), however the rest is rather dull. A chronological list of events and encountered people without any real analysis to give a deeper understanding. The death of Wiggins' father hangs over the book too heavily, and the drinking binges are not that interesting to read about even if they are things that Bradley is trying to work through. For a real understanding of the spectacular success of Britain's track cyclists read Moore's 'Heroes, Villains and Velodromes'. I love Wiggins as a cyclist and one day I'm sure that he will deserve a biography to be written, but this one is too soon and incomplete. It reeks of all those footballers 'auto'biographies, cashing in on current glories.
Brilliant Read, 07 Oct 2008
This is a book not just for cycling fans but anyone interested in sport and also human relationships. I cant rate this book highly enough it draws in a frank and full way on Bradleys diffcult personal circumstances and how he acheived the success he so rightly enjoys today. This is the book of a champion not to be missed!
Great book about a British cycling hero., 09 Oct 2008
Like some of the other reviewers I had not realised the extent of Robert's achievements until I read this. He was a great rider and it will take some time and changes in the way we train cyclists in this country before we see any male rider as good all round as he was. The book itself evoked real anger in me, where it talks about Robert being duped into second place in the Tour of Spain. This sort thing shows a lack of self esteem on the part of those who pulled it off. And denied both Robert and Britain of a win in a major tour. I found the email correspondence at the end of the book both fascinating and poignant. If Robert ever reads any of this stuff on Amazon all I can say thank you for being an inspiration to me and many others. It is people like Robert that make us aspire to greater things ourselves. This is a great book and recommended reading.
Exceptional account about an intriguing man, 14 Sep 2008
Have to agree with all the rest of the reviews, simply a great story of Millars' life. A fantastic cyclist, who gave joy to a great many with his epic climbs. He obviously was intelligent and committed during his career, and if he wishes to remain out of the public eye now, then one hopes he gets his wish.
Why this was not shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book Award 2007 (let alone win it) I'll never understand. Have read a couple of the shortlisted books (including the winner) and they just don't compare.
Well-overdue biography of a cycling legend., 31 Aug 2008
My earliest memory of Robert Millar is when he appeared in the Kellogg's cinema advert soon after winning the Tour de France "King of the Mountains" title. Sadly, Robert remains the only british rider to achive this level of success in Le Tour and this biographer makes no attempt to hide his admiration.
I don't agree with the reviewer who suggested that this is the best ever cycling biography but it is nevertheless a very good read. Journalist Richard Moore has done a terrific job of researching his subject including interviews with a wide range of people who knew / know Millar. Unfortunately, Millar himself did not cooperate with the book (although he did not actively provide an obstruction) and for that reason, there is little comment from the great man himself. Similarly, there is little in the way of comment from his immediate family.
Millar's career is covered in detail and teh book doesn't shy away from discussing subjects such as Millar's legendary caution with money or his failed drugs test. A less sympathetic author might have been tempted to provide a bit more analysis in these areas. A fine book.
What more can I say, 08 Jul 2008
The previous reviews say it all. My first encounter with Robert Millar was a radio report on Radio Clyde the day after he won his first tour stage and as a 14 year old living in the West of Scotland I had the overwhelming urge to find out more about the guy. Now many years later thanks to this fantastic book I finally know as much as there is to know about Bob as is available in the public domain. Utterly compelling. If you saw a middle aged guy almost crying next to a swimming pool on a small Greek Island in June 2008, that was probably me finishing this book.
Brilliant.
Could not put it down, 03 Jul 2008
I 'knew' Robert Millar as we both worked at Weir Pumps in the Test department in 1977/1978. I followed his cycling career and truly believe that Richard Moore has captured the spirit and character of Robert in the book. He has done some amazing amount of research to come up with the book. It is much more than a 'Sports Biography'. For reasons I cannot quite explain I felt sad when I finished the book - maybe simply because I had finished a great read - or perhaps the apparent closing of the door on Robert's life.
I have also read Matt Rendell's 'The Death of Marco Pantani' which is also a very good book. Matt Rendell's writing is really excellent, as is his forensic analysis of medical records a la the drugs and doping. But the Robert Millar book is something else - much more personal and simply a 'good' story.
Wherever Robert is, and whatever he is doing, I console myself to hoping that at least he has read the book, and can hopefully consider that his life story has been well presented (at last).
Ian Reynolds
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Every Second Counts
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*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £3.55
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Product Description
In the opening of Lance Armstrong's memoir, Every Second Counts (coauthored by Sally Jenkins), he reflects: "Generally, one of the hardest things in the world to do is something twice." While he is talking here about his preparation for what would prove to be his second consecutive Tour de France victory in 2000, the sentiment could equally be applied to the book itself. And just as Armstrong managed to repeat his incredible 1999 tour victory, Every Second Counts repeats--and, in some ways exceeds—the success of his bestselling first memoir, It's Not About the Bike. Every Second Counts confronts the challenge of moving beyond his cancer experience, his first Tour victory and his celebrity status. Few of Armstrong's readers will ever compete in the Tour de France (though cyclists will relish Armstrong's detailed recounting of his 2000-2003 tour victories), but all will relate to his discussions of loss and disappointment in his personal and professional life since 1999. They will relate to his battles with petty bureaucracies, such as the French court system during the doping scandal that almost halted his career. And they will especially relate to constant struggles with work/life balance. In the face of September 11--which arrives halfway through the narrative (just before the fifth anniversary of his diagnosis)--Armstrong draws from his experiences to show that suffering, fear and death are the essential human condition. In so openly using his own life to illustrate how to face this reality, he proves that he truly is a hero--and not just because of the bike. In Every Second Counts he is to be admired as a human being, a man who sees every day as a challenge to live richly and well, no matter what hardships may come. --Patrick O'Kelley, Amazon.com
Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
Disappointing, 14 Oct 2008
A disappointing book for me. Having read a few excellent sporting books by Richard Moore and Matt Rendell about modern professional cycling I had hopes that this would provide some insights into the new wave of talent and the way in which cycling is heading. Sadly no. The description of the recent Olympic races were absorbing and passionate (all three stars are for the tail end of the book!), however the rest is rather dull. A chronological list of events and encountered people without any real analysis to give a deeper understanding. The death of Wiggins' father hangs over the book too heavily, and the drinking binges are not that interesting to read about even if they are things that Bradley is trying to work through. For a real understanding of the spectacular success of Britain's track cyclists read Moore's 'Heroes, Villains and Velodromes'. I love Wiggins as a cyclist and one day I'm sure that he will deserve a biography to be written, but this one is too soon and incomplete. It reeks of all those footballers 'auto'biographies, cashing in on current glories.
Brilliant Read, 07 Oct 2008
This is a book not just for cycling fans but anyone interested in sport and also human relationships. I cant rate this book highly enough it draws in a frank and full way on Bradleys diffcult personal circumstances and how he acheived the success he so rightly enjoys today. This is the book of a champion not to be missed!
Great book about a British cycling hero., 09 Oct 2008
Like some of the other reviewers I had not realised the extent of Robert's achievements until I read this. He was a great rider and it will take some time and changes in the way we train cyclists in this country before we see any male rider as good all round as he was. The book itself evoked real anger in me, where it talks about Robert being duped into second place in the Tour of Spain. This sort thing shows a lack of self esteem on the part of those who pulled it off. And denied both Robert and Britain of a win in a major tour. I found the email correspondence at the end of the book both fascinating and poignant. If Robert ever reads any of this stuff on Amazon all I can say thank you for being an inspiration to me and many others. It is people like Robert that make us aspire to greater things ourselves. This is a great book and recommended reading.
Exceptional account about an intriguing man, 14 Sep 2008
Have to agree with all the rest of the reviews, simply a great story of Millars' life. A fantastic cyclist, who gave joy to a great many with his epic climbs. He obviously was intelligent and committed during his career, and if he wishes to remain out of the public eye now, then one hopes he gets his wish.
Why this was not shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book Award 2007 (let alone win it) I'll never understand. Have read a couple of the shortlisted books (including the winner) and they just don't compare.
Well-overdue biography of a cycling legend., 31 Aug 2008
My earliest memory of Robert Millar is when he appeared in the Kellogg's cinema advert soon after winning the Tour de France "King of the Mountains" title. Sadly, Robert remains the only british rider to achive this level of success in Le Tour and this biographer makes no attempt to hide his admiration.
I don't agree with the reviewer who suggested that this is the best ever cycling biography but it is nevertheless a very good read. Journalist Richard Moore has done a terrific job of researching his subject including interviews with a wide range of people who knew / know Millar. Unfortunately, Millar himself did not cooperate with the book (although he did not actively provide an obstruction) and for that reason, there is little comment from the great man himself. Similarly, there is little in the way of comment from his immediate family.
Millar's career is covered in detail and teh book doesn't shy away from discussing subjects such as Millar's legendary caution with money or his failed drugs test. A less sympathetic author might have been tempted to provide a bit more analysis in these areas. A fine book.
What more can I say, 08 Jul 2008
The previous reviews say it all. My first encounter with Robert Millar was a radio report on Radio Clyde the day after he won his first tour stage and as a 14 year old living in the West of Scotland I had the overwhelming urge to find out more about the guy. Now many years later thanks to this fantastic book I finally know as much as there is to know about Bob as is available in the public domain. Utterly compelling. If you saw a middle aged guy almost crying next to a swimming pool on a small Greek Island in June 2008, that was probably me finishing this book.
Brilliant.
Could not put it down, 03 Jul 2008
I 'knew' Robert Millar as we both worked at Weir Pumps in the Test department in 1977/1978. I followed his cycling career and truly believe that Richard Moore has captured the spirit and character of Robert in the book. He has done some amazing amount of research to come up with the book. It is much more than a 'Sports Biography'. For reasons I cannot quite explain I felt sad when I finished the book - maybe simply because I had finished a great read - or perhaps the apparent closing of the door on Robert's life.
I have also read Matt Rendell's 'The Death of Marco Pantani' which is also a very good book. Matt Rendell's writing is really excellent, as is his forensic analysis of medical records a la the drugs and doping. But the Robert Millar book is something else - much more personal and simply a 'good' story.
Wherever Robert is, and whatever he is doing, I console myself to hoping that at least he has read the book, and can hopefully consider that his life story has been well presented (at last).
Ian Reynolds
Inspirational and comforting, 21 Aug 2008
I had already read Lance's first book but after being diagnosed with cancer myself I decided to read this one too.
It is the quickest I have ever read a book in my life, I really couldn't put it down. Very easy to read and made me feel much better about by situation. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants a bit of a 'pick me up'!
Not much personality.., 04 Mar 2008
You have to admire Lance Armstrong and his fantastic Tour wins. The "is that all you've got" look he gave to Jan Ulrich destroyed him and anybody who thought they were in with a chance on that race. He overcame cancer and led the US Postal and Discovery channel team with aplomb for several years, in the face of many unproven drug rumours.
However driven (extremely) and succesful (more so) he was, this does not make him the type of man you'd like to be stuck in the lift with and it shows in this book. Just not a great read I'm afraid as your fears that most of todays top sportsmen are robotic and lacking in personality are proved right.
Survivor, 22 May 2007
This was written in 2004 after his record 6th consequetive win of the Tour de France. If you've read his first book, this is a very necessary follow up. There is some overlap in the telling of the cancer story but that is to be expected.
We get more details, in some cases very sad details of his personal life and relationship break ups. Through it all it seems as though Lance is starting to grow up a little bit. Perhaps seeming a little less arrogant but maybe that is easy now that he is an undisputed champion.
Never shy of controversy, Armstrong offers, with typical frankness, his thoughts on training, competing, winning and failure. He also tells of the work he does for the foundation he created following his dramatic recovery, addresses the daunting challenge of living in the aftermath of cancer and treatment, and shares further inspirational tales of survival.
A fresh outlook on the spirit of survivors everywhere, Every Second Counts is an awe-inspiring book by a man who strives every day to meet life's challenges - whether on his bike or off. There are more descriptions of his cycling and training strategies here too.
This man is a God. And he deserves more credit. Book is great, 17 May 2007
I remember the (scant British) TV coverage of some of the races described here... heart-pounding stuff! So I have a lot of admiration for any of the participants and nothing but awe for anyone who wins such a grueling race! Now I have been counting up those years because I can't quite believe anyone could win the Tour de France for seven years in a row! Added to this the fact that this man is a survivor of advanced-stage cancer!!
But what about the book? - it is very easy to read - I finished in two or three days and only tiredness forced my to turn out the light! Whatever the contribution of Sally Jenkins it sounds like the voice of Lance Armstrong throughout with no detectable seams. It is well structured too - even if you are familiar with the main events the story comes alive again through Lance's perspective and insights. It is not too technical, ie. you don't have to be a bike fanatics to enjoy!
Do we get to see the inner man? Are the secrets of his success revealed? This is not a "How to..." book, but there are signs: self-belief, preparation, concentration, demanding of self and others, acceptance of pain, prepared to take risks, not giving up, acknowledging and rewarding others, sharing success, developing talent in others..... all good lessons no matter what our goals in life.
But there is also an attempt to paint a balanced and honest picture of this life - we hear about fears of a return of cancer, frustration at the press and French judicial system promoting and exhaustively trying to prove drug abuse, almost despair at the idleness outside the training/race season, the pain at not preventing the break-up of a marriage, and even admission of failure to be as inspirational as expected!
It is hard to find fault - I did think it a little false that everyone he encounters appears to be a friend. And all that self-assurance - not sure I actually like the guy, or would want to be around him for too long... but the books is great!
An OK read, 10 Nov 2006
An account racing in the Tour de France. Partially inspirational. I can't really say this book changed my life. Not as good as other reviews would lead you to believe.
Not a bad read.
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Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
Disappointing, 14 Oct 2008
A disappointing book for me. Having read a few excellent sporting books by Richard Moore and Matt Rendell about modern professional cycling I had hopes that this would provide some insights into the new wave of talent and the way in which cycling is heading. Sadly no. The description of the recent Olympic races were absorbing and passionate (all three stars are for the tail end of the book!), however the rest is rather dull. A chronological list of events and encountered people without any real analysis to give a deeper understanding. The death of Wiggins' father hangs over the book too heavily, and the drinking binges are not that interesting to read about even if they are things that Bradley is trying to work through. For a real understanding of the spectacular success of Britain's track cyclists read Moore's 'Heroes, Villains and Velodromes'. I love Wiggins as a cyclist and one day I'm sure that he will deserve a biography to be written, but this one is too soon and incomplete. It reeks of all those footballers 'auto'biographies, cashing in on current glories.
Brilliant Read, 07 Oct 2008
This is a book not just for cycling fans but anyone interested in sport and also human relationships. I cant rate this book highly enough it draws in a frank and full way on Bradleys diffcult personal circumstances and how he acheived the success he so rightly enjoys today. This is the book of a champion not to be missed!
Great book about a British cycling hero., 09 Oct 2008
Like some of the other reviewers I had not realised the extent of Robert's achievements until I read this. He was a great rider and it will take some time and changes in the way we train cyclists in this country before we see any male rider as good all round as he was. The book itself evoked real anger in me, where it talks about Robert being duped into second place in the Tour of Spain. This sort thing shows a lack of self esteem on the part of those who pulled it off. And denied both Robert and Britain of a win in a major tour. I found the email correspondence at the end of the book both fascinating and poignant. If Robert ever reads any of this stuff on Amazon all I can say thank you for being an inspiration to me and many others. It is people like Robert that make us aspire to greater things ourselves. This is a great book and recommended reading.
Exceptional account about an intriguing man, 14 Sep 2008
Have to agree with all the rest of the reviews, simply a great story of Millars' life. A fantastic cyclist, who gave joy to a great many with his epic climbs. He obviously was intelligent and committed during his career, and if he wishes to remain out of the public eye now, then one hopes he gets his wish.
Why this was not shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book Award 2007 (let alone win it) I'll never understand. Have read a couple of the shortlisted books (including the winner) and they just don't compare.
Well-overdue biography of a cycling legend., 31 Aug 2008
My earliest memory of Robert Millar is when he appeared in the Kellogg's cinema advert soon after winning the Tour de France "King of the Mountains" title. Sadly, Robert remains the only british rider to achive this level of success in Le Tour and this biographer makes no attempt to hide his admiration.
I don't agree with the reviewer who suggested that this is the best ever cycling biography but it is nevertheless a very good read. Journalist Richard Moore has done a terrific job of researching his subject including interviews with a wide range of people who knew / know Millar. Unfortunately, Millar himself did not cooperate with the book (although he did not actively provide an obstruction) and for that reason, there is little comment from the great man himself. Similarly, there is little in the way of comment from his immediate family.
Millar's career is covered in detail and teh book doesn't shy away from discussing subjects such as Millar's legendary caution with money or his failed drugs test. A less sympathetic author might have been tempted to provide a bit more analysis in these areas. A fine book.
What more can I say, 08 Jul 2008
The previous reviews say it all. My first encounter with Robert Millar was a radio report on Radio Clyde the day after he won his first tour stage and as a 14 year old living in the West of Scotland I had the overwhelming urge to find out more about the guy. Now many years later thanks to this fantastic book I finally know as much as there is to know about Bob as is available in the public domain. Utterly compelling. If you saw a middle aged guy almost crying next to a swimming pool on a small Greek Island in June 2008, that was probably me finishing this book.
Brilliant.
Could not put it down, 03 Jul 2008
I 'knew' Robert Millar as we both worked at Weir Pumps in the Test department in 1977/1978. I followed his cycling career and truly believe that Richard Moore has captured the spirit and character of Robert in the book. He has done some amazing amount of research to come up with the book. It is much more than a 'Sports Biography'. For reasons I cannot quite explain I felt sad when I finished the book - maybe simply because I had finished a great read - or perhaps the apparent closing of the door on Robert's life.
I have also read Matt Rendell's 'The Death of Marco Pantani' which is also a very good book. Matt Rendell's writing is really excellent, as is his forensic analysis of medical records a la the drugs and doping. But the Robert Millar book is something else - much more personal and simply a 'good' story.
Wherever Robert is, and whatever he is doing, I console myself to hoping that at least he has read the book, and can hopefully consider that his life story has been well presented (at last).
Ian Reynolds
Inspirational and comforting, 21 Aug 2008
I had already read Lance's first book but after being diagnosed with cancer myself I decided to read this one too.
It is the quickest I have ever read a book in my life, I really couldn't put it down. Very easy to read and made me feel much better about by situation. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants a bit of a 'pick me up'!
Not much personality.., 04 Mar 2008
You have to admire Lance Armstrong and his fantastic Tour wins. The "is that all you've got" look he gave to Jan Ulrich destroyed him and anybody who thought they were in with a chance on that race. He overcame cancer and led the US Postal and Discovery channel team with aplomb for several years, in the face of many unproven drug rumours.
However driven (extremely) and succesful (more so) he was, this does not make him the type of man you'd like to be stuck in the lift with and it shows in this book. Just not a great read I'm afraid as your fears that most of todays top sportsmen are robotic and lacking in personality are proved right.
Survivor, 22 May 2007
This was written in 2004 after his record 6th consequetive win of the Tour de France. If you've read his first book, this is a very necessary follow up. There is some overlap in the telling of the cancer story but that is to be expected.
We get more details, in some cases very sad details of his personal life and relationship break ups. Through it all it seems as though Lance is starting to grow up a little bit. Perhaps seeming a little less arrogant but maybe that is easy now that he is an undisputed champion.
Never shy of controversy, Armstrong offers, with typical frankness, his thoughts on training, competing, winning and failure. He also tells of the work he does for the foundation he created following his dramatic recovery, addresses the daunting challenge of living in the aftermath of cancer and treatment, and shares further inspirational tales of survival.
A fresh outlook on the spirit of survivors everywhere, Every Second Counts is an awe-inspiring book by a man who strives every day to meet life's challenges - whether on his bike or off. There are more descriptions of his cycling and training strategies here too.
This man is a God. And he deserves more credit. Book is great, 17 May 2007
I remember the (scant British) TV coverage of some of the races described here... heart-pounding stuff! So I have a lot of admiration for any of the participants and nothing but awe for anyone who wins such a grueling race! Now I have been counting up those years because I can't quite believe anyone could win the Tour de France for seven years in a row! Added to this the fact that this man is a survivor of advanced-stage cancer!!
But what about the book? - it is very easy to read - I finished in two or three days and only tiredness forced my to turn out the light! Whatever the contribution of Sally Jenkins it sounds like the voice of Lance Armstrong throughout with no detectable seams. It is well structured too - even if you are familiar with the main events the story comes alive again through Lance's perspective and insights. It is not too technical, ie. you don't have to be a bike fanatics to enjoy!
Do we get to see the inner man? Are the secrets of his success revealed? This is not a "How to..." book, but there are signs: self-belief, preparation, concentration, demanding of self and others, acceptance of pain, prepared to take risks, not giving up, acknowledging and rewarding others, sharing success, developing talent in others..... all good lessons no matter what our goals in life.
But there is also an attempt to paint a balanced and honest picture of this life - we hear about fears of a return of cancer, frustration at the press and French judicial system promoting and exhaustively trying to prove drug abuse, almost despair at the idleness outside the training/race season, the pain at not preventing the break-up of a marriage, and even admission of failure to be as inspirational as expected!
It is hard to find fault - I did think it a little false that everyone he encounters appears to be a friend. And all that self-assurance - not sure I actually like the guy, or would want to be around him for too long... but the books is great!
An OK read, 10 Nov 2006
An account racing in the Tour de France. Partially inspirational. I can't really say this book changed my life. Not as good as other reviews would lead you to believe.
Not a bad read.
Perfect for finding the motivation over winter, 13 Oct 2008
Many cycling books touch on the subject of Cyclo Sportives such as the increasingly popular L'Etape du Tour and some even go as far as to tell you how to to train for one. Unfortunately, this extends only to what amounts to lots of mileage, with no real reason as to why. Nor do they cover any of the specific points for the sportive newcomer to consider.
If you are absolutely BRAND NEW to cycling (ie you have only just bought the bike!) then something a bit more basic and straightforward such as the LANCE ARMSTRONG PERFORMANCE PLAN would be a better start. Once you've read that and gone out and done more than a 20 miler (both acievable on the same day!!) then you should take a look at this book.
It covers EVERYTHING the aspirant sportivist needs to know about training and preparing to put him (or her)self through the several hundred miles these events usually clock up. It includes training plans for the rookiw and advances cyclist alike which will prepare you over the winter months for the summer sportive season and also covers in great depth what you need to know about nutrition. In fact, few books I've read achieve this level of detail for this specific subject matter and its worth a read for this alone. It also covers the 'handy hints' a rookiw sportivist would need to know for his or her first sportive. All in all, its very thorough.
I would DEFINATELY recommend this book to anyone who is looking to enter this type of endurance event next summer (this is written as at Oct). It will supply you with the requisite motivation to get out and spend hours on end on your bike over the cold and wet winter months in order to ensure you are fit enough to enjoy your event.
That said, could I say anything negative about it? Well, YES, actually. The authors seem to have a professional sports coaching and fitness testing business which is repeatedly referred to throughout the text. Is this because they wish to merely substantiate their credentials or is it an effort to advertise themselves and thus the book serves as a marketing tool for the business? Either way, the necessary info and knowledge is all their and should not stop you from buying this book.
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Customer Reviews
Fantastic!!, 30 Aug 2008
Like so many people in the country I was blown away by the success of the recent Olympics in Beijing, but especially by the amazing performances of the GB cycling team. So when i noticed "Heroes, Villains & Velodromes" on the shelf of my local book shop I thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't sure what to expect really but what i got was a lively, entertaining and extremely well written read about the revolution in british cycling and Hoy's part in it over the last ten years. As Moore says in his comments it's not nessecarily a story just about Chris Hoy but he is the principal character and 'star of the show'
Hoy comes across a phenomenal athlete, ferocious competitor but also a genuinely nice guy who's dedicates hiimself completely to his sport, not for the money but for the thrill of winning and being a champion.
In today's money obsessed world of sport where even the most mediocre of premiership footballers can earn a small fortune, that is something truly awe-inspiring.
As one reviewer said there will probably be a re-release or additional chapters added to the paperback version to cover events in Beijing which you might want to wait for. However i would say that this insightful, well researched and engaging book is definitely worth buying.
Great Read, 27 Aug 2008
This book is a great look into the history and story behind one of Britain's most impressive athletes. The book isn't just about a variety of topics Hoy, but covers a range of issues around track cycling and the changes that have happened in British sport. Moore writes in a very engaging way and uses a range of styles that keep the book interesting.
Only 4 stars for two reasons.
1. Given his recent Olympic Haul there's bound to be a re-release with an added chapter so you might want to wait for that.
2. The book doesn't really delve into Hoy's relationship with other cyclists especially the other stars on the British team like Wiggins, I would have been interested to hear more about the interactions between the various disciplines within track cycling.
Well researched, excellent read, 07 Aug 2008
Heroes, Villains and Velodromes is an excellent read and was obviously very well researched.
I particularly enjoyed all the facts and figures. For example; Bolivia having the longest runway in the world,Chris Hoy's winning margin of five hundredths of a second equating to 2.3cm.
A excellent profile on Chris and all concerned with his success.
Perfectly explained even to someone who is not of the cycling fraternity and I would recommend it to cycling fans and newcomers alike. Well done to the author on this account alone.
Inspiring, 10 Jun 2008
The story of Chris Hoy - and Craig McClean and other trackies - is told in Richard Moore's new book. It's an inspiring read, especially when you discover about the pathetic state British Cycling was in in the mid-90s.
This book will whet your appetite for the Beijing Olympics, and give you confidence that Team GB are in wonderful hands.
A gold medal winning book!, 09 Jun 2008
Richard Moore has done it again, following on from the Robert Millar book, Richard has produced a book that is surely going to win as many awards as Chris Hoy has won world championships! As well as providing an insight into one of the last decades most successful sportsmen it also provides previously unknown information of how British Cycling turned itself around from one of the most underfunded and unsuccessful sporting organisations to be the envy of sporting associations across the world, one where even the Aussies want to copy us! Richard has had unprecedented access to Hoy during his 1km world record attempt in La Paz, Bolivia and throughout the year to the amazing Manchester world cycling championships where Hoy won the men`s world sprint championship at his first attempt, ending a 54 year drought in the blue riband event of track cycling. More than anything the incredible support that the Hoy family as a whole have provided Chris, is written about with affection, and you are left with a feeling that even though Chris does the pedalling it really has been a team effort to produce " Chris Hoy the Real McHoy." Richard Moore is surely becoming one of the most entertaining and investigative sports writers of this century. Buy this book if you want to know what makes an Olympic champion tick.
It's about courage, desire and perserverence, 04 Aug 2008
One of the best true stories you are ever likely to read. If you want to be inspired whether it be in cycling,sports,work or your overall life then this book will do it for you. Get a good new copy as you will read it again and again.
Lethargy, 02 Jun 2008
The writing style of this book is odd, and at times it reads like a blog or if Lance is recording thoughts and handing them oer to the co-author. In fact the writing style and the short length of the book were the negative points for me. I somehow felt there might be more he could share but then again I guess this is his style, so if you are looking for a great piece of writing you've come to the wrong place. Its also not really an explanation of the cancer experience (I guess thats in the first volume). What it is a description of a man's life, what bothers him, what choices he has made and is making with cancer, his relationship to the disease and the sufferers he actively makes a point of meeting, how he manages to train every day of the year and have a family life (but not very sucessfully as he recently divorced Sheryl Crow- also a cancer sufferer), and his views on lots of issues like religion and even the Iraq war. There is also quite a lot of material which in summary are a dummies guide to how Lance keeps on winning the tour de france, as well as personal feedback on specific races or incidents such as the fall up the mountain in 2003. As a result I think if you are not a cycling or Tour de France fan you would be better off reading the cancer story. However if like me you wanted to get an insight into a sporting and personnal enigma then this is a good read and I couldn't put it down once I'd started.
This book enables even the most ignorant spectator of cycle racing and the Tour de France in particular to appreciate how much more is involved in this sport than the pedalling of the routes of France we see on television. The details Lance Armstrong provides brings both the race and the figures in the peleton to life.
However, much deeper than the insight into this famous race, is the appreciation the reader is able to experience of a very human man with very human failings but incredible strength of purpose and character. He leaves you with the determination to make all your own seconds count.
Amazing!, 24 Mar 2008
This book is truly inspirational and I love it! Heard it on audiobook and loved it so much i'm buying the book!
It's Not About the Bike: My Journney Back to Life, 23 Feb 2008
An excellent book, well written and gives a very open and honest insight into what only can be said is someone who clearly is a great sportsman with a very special talent.
More interesting than inspirational, 30 Jan 2008
As pure inspiration goes I'm not sure this one really hit the spot for me. However it was an entertaining, easy reading walk through armstrongs early years as a bolshie youngster, the shock of cancer and then his recovery back to a world class athlete. I found the most interesting angle was the discussion about how the tour and peleton operate with it's rivalry and gentlemans agreements.
This seems more about one mans journey of discovery and growing up as a man than it is about coming back from cancer.
Disappointing, 14 Oct 2008
A disappointing book for me. Having read a few excellent sporting books by Richard Moore and Matt Rendell about modern professional cycling I had hopes that this would provide some insights into the new wave of talent and the way in which cycling is heading. Sadly no. The description of the recent Olympic races were absorbing and passionate (all three stars are for the tail end of the book!), however the rest is rather dull. A chronological list of events and encountered people without any real analysis to give a deeper understanding. The death of Wiggins' father hangs over the book too heavily, and the drinking binges are not that interesting to read about even if they are things that Bradley is trying to work through. For a real understanding of the spectacular success of Britain's track cyclists read Moore's 'Heroes, Villains and Velodromes'. I love Wiggins as a cyclist and one day I'm sure that he will deserve a biography to be written, but this one is too soon and incomplete. It reeks of all those footballers 'auto'biographies, cashing in on current glories.
Brilliant Read, 07 Oct 2008
This is a book not just for cycling fans but anyone interested in sport and also human relationships. I cant rate this book highly enough it draws in a frank and full way on Bradleys diffcult personal circumstances and how he acheived the success he so rightly enjoys today. This is the book of a champion not to be missed!
Great book about a British cycling hero., 09 Oct 2008
Like some of the other reviewers I had not realised the extent of Robert's achievements until I read this. He was a great rider and it will take some time and changes in the way we train cyclists in this country before we see any male rider as good all round as he was. The book itself evoked real anger in me, where it talks about Robert being duped into second place in the Tour of Spain. This sort thing shows a lack of self esteem on the part of those who pulled it off. And denied both Robert and Britain of a win in a major tour. I found the email correspondence at the end of the book both fascinating and poignant. If Robert ever reads any of this stuff on Amazon all I can say thank you for being an inspiration to me and many others. It is people like Robert that make us aspire to greater things ourselves. This is a great book and recommended reading.
Exceptional account about an intriguing man, 14 Sep 2008
Have to agree with all the rest of the reviews, simply a great story of Millars' life. A fantastic cyclist, who gave joy to a great many with his epic climbs. He obviously was intelligent and committed during his career, and if he wishes to remain out of the public eye now, then one hopes he gets his wish.
Why this was not shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book Award 2007 (let alone win it) I'll never understand. Have read a couple of the shortlisted books (including the winner) and they just don't compare.
Well-overdue biography of a cycling legend., 31 Aug 2008
My earliest memory of Robert Millar is when he appeared in the Kellogg's cinema advert soon after winning the Tour de France "King of the Mountains" title. Sadly, Robert remains the only british rider to achive this level of success in Le Tour and this biographer makes no attempt to hide his admiration.
I don't agree with the reviewer who suggested that this is the best ever cycling biography but it is nevertheless a very good read. Journalist Richard Moore has done a terrific job of researching his subject including interviews with a wide range of people who knew / know Millar. Unfortunately, Millar himself did not cooperate with the book (although he did not actively provide an obstruction) and for that reason, there is little comment from the great man himself. Similarly, there is little in the way of comment from his immediate family.
Millar's career is covered in detail and teh book doesn't shy away from discussing subjects such as Millar's legendary caution with money or his failed drugs test. A less sympathetic author might have been tempted to provide a bit more analysis in these areas. A fine book.
What more can I say, 08 Jul 2008
The previous reviews say it all. My first encounter with Robert Millar was a radio report on Radio Clyde the day after he won his first tour stage and as a 14 year old living in the West of Scotland I had the overwhelming urge to find out more about the guy. Now many years later thanks to this fantastic book I finally know as much as there is to know about Bob as is available in the public domain. Utterly compelling. If you saw a middle aged guy almost crying next to a swimming pool on a small Greek Island in June 2008, that was probably me finishing this book.
Brilliant.
Could not put it down, 03 Jul 2008
I 'knew' Robert Millar as we both worked at Weir Pumps in the Test department in 1977/1978. I followed his cycling career and truly believe that Richard Moore has captured the spirit and character of Robert in the book. He has done some amazing amount of research to come up with the book. It is much more than a 'Sports Biography'. For reasons I cannot quite explain I felt sad when I finished the book - maybe simply because I had finished a great read - or perhaps the apparent closing of the door on Robert's life.
I have also read Matt Rendell's 'The Death of Marco Pantani' which is also a very good book. Matt Rendell's writing is really excellent, as is his forensic analysis of medical records a la the drugs and doping. But the Robert Millar book is something else - much more personal and simply a 'good' story.
Wherever Robert is, and whatever he is doing, I console myself to hoping that at least he has read the book, and can hopefully consider that his life story has been well presented (at last).
Ian Reynolds
Inspirational and comforting, 21 Aug 2008
I had already read Lance's first book but after being diagnosed with cancer myself I decided to read this one too.
It is the quickest I have ever read a book in my life, I really couldn't put it down. Very easy to read and made me feel much better about by situation. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants a bit of a 'pick me up'!
Not much personality.., 04 Mar 2008
You have to admire Lance Armstrong and his fantastic Tour wins. The "is that all you've got" look he gave to Jan Ulrich destroyed him and anybody who thought they were in with a chance on that race. He overcame cancer and led the US Postal and Discovery channel team with aplomb for several years, in the face of many unproven drug rumours.
However driven (extremely) and succesful (more so) he was, this does not make him the type of man you'd like to be stuck in the lift with and it shows in this book. Just not a great read I'm afraid as your fears that most of todays top sportsmen are robotic and lacking in personality are proved right.
Survivor, 22 May 2007
This was written in 2004 after his record 6th consequetive win of the Tour de France. If you've read his first book, this is a very necessary follow up. There is some overlap in the telling of the cancer story but that is to be expected.
We get more details, in some cases very sad details of his personal life and relationship break ups. Through it all it seems as though Lance is starting to grow up a little bit. Perhaps seeming a little less arrogant but maybe that is easy now that he is an undisputed champion.
Never shy of controversy, Armstrong offers, with typical frankness, his thoughts on training, competing, winning and failure. He also tells of the work he does for the foundation he created following his dramatic recovery, addresses the daunting challenge of living in the aftermath of cancer and treatment, and shares further inspirational tales of survival.
A fresh outlook on the spirit of survivors everywhere, Every Second Counts is an awe-inspiring book by a man who strives every day to meet life's challenges - whether on his bike or off. There are more descriptions of his cycling and training strategies here too.
This man is a God. And he deserves more credit. Book is great, 17 May 2007
I remember the (scant British) TV coverage of some of the races described here... heart-pounding stuff! So I have a lot of admiration for any of the participants and nothing but awe for anyone who wins such a grueling race! Now I have been counting up those years because I can't quite believe anyone could win the Tour de France for seven years in a row! Added to this the fact that this man is a survivor of advanced-stage cancer!!
But what about the book? - it is very easy to read - I finished in two or three days and only tiredness forced my to turn out the light! Whatever the contribution of Sally Jenkins it sounds like the voice of Lance Armstrong throughout with no detectable seams. It is well structured too - even if you are familiar with the main events the story comes alive again through Lance's perspective and insights. It is not too technical, ie. you don't have t | | |