Detailed, hagiographic biography of one of the world's most inspiring athletes. Sports and fitness journalist Wilcockson-who previously wrote about Lance Armstrong in 23 Days in July (2004)-begins with Armstrong's childhood in Texas, during which he matured under the watchful eyes of a doting mother and a disciplinarian yet generous stepfather. By his mid teens he had become a nationally ranked triathlete and was soon reaping the rewards of his notoriety. Yet, as Wilcockson learned from interviews with Armstrong's friends and family, there was anger in him, possibly stemming from the discovery of his stepfather's infidelity. There was also arrogance-success had come too easily. In 1996, the 25-year-old Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had metastasized to his lungs, abdomen and brain. Given a 50 percent chance of survival, his future looked bleak. But in 1999, after brain surgery and debilitating chemotherapy, Armstrong won the Tour de France-and would win it another six consecutive years, all the while fighting baseless accusations of doping. Wilcockson is at his best describing this tortuous 2,200-mile event, which tests athletes to the breaking point, and he ably captures the world of European cycling-the techniques, personalities and overwhelming passion. The author also outlines Armstrong's personal life, including his failed marriage, relationship with singer Sheryl Crow and the growth of the Lance Armstrong Foundation and its "Live Strong" campaign. Ultimately, though, Armstrong remains a mystery. For all the detail he provides, Wilcockson-perhaps being too close to the subject-never quite penetrates the protective shield of Armstrong's public persona. Serviceablebut not definitive. Agent: James Levine/Levine Greenberg Literary Agency
Once a superstar in the world of cycling and one of its most interesting personalities, Lance Armstrong is known for pushing his body to the extreme, intimidating his rivals, and breaking the rules. Armstrong's many achievements were consistently dogged by allegations of doping and secrecy, allegations to which the cyclist ultimately acknowledged. Lance takes a long, hard, objective look at Armstrong's life-before his admission of guilt-both on and off the bike, beginning with his humble origins and his single mom's struggle for survival. John Wilcockson provides numerous details of how Armstrong's legendary training, a near-fatal bout with cancer, and battles with the media drove him to reach the pinnacle of his sport. Drawing on dozens of interviews with teammates, friends, and family-many who spoke publicly for the first time-Wilcockson delivers a biography on the life of this controversial athlete.
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Lance: The Making of the World's Greatest Champion
Once a superstar in the world of cycling and one of its most interesting personalities, Lance Armstrong is known for pushing his body to the extreme, intimidating his rivals, and breaking the rules. Armstrong's many achievements were consistently dogged by allegations of doping and secrecy, allegations to which the cyclist ultimately acknowledged. Lance takes a long, hard, objective look at Armstrong's life-before his admission of guilt-both on and off the bike, beginning with his humble origins and his single mom's struggle for survival. John Wilcockson provides numerous details of how Armstrong's legendary training, a near-fatal bout with cancer, and battles with the media drove him to reach the pinnacle of his sport. Drawing on dozens of interviews with teammates, friends, and family-many who spoke publicly for the first time-Wilcockson delivers a biography on the life of this controversial athlete.
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Product Details
| BN ID: | 2940193107866 |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Phoenix Books, Inc. |
| Publication date: | 06/01/2009 |
| Edition description: | Unabridged |
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