Autobiography: sport Books

Book SynopsisMucky Boots is the warts-and-all story of Kevin McCabe''s two decades as Sheffield United''s owner-chairman. McCabe grew up yards from Bramall Lane, where he watched Sheffield United FC and Yorkshire County Cricket Club play. He left school aged 16 and worked on a building site, where a few words of encouragement set him on a path to creating a billion-pound global property empire. McCabe''s Sheffield United takeover was driven by his quest to beat local rivals, Sheffield Wednesday, and establish the Blades in the Premier League. Along the way, he took on the football establishment. With his hopes floundering in the midst of a rancorous dispute with then co-owner Prince Abdullah, a chance encounter led to McCabe''s appointment of Chris Wilder as Blades manager in 2016. In an ironic twist, as the Blades headed back to the Premier League, McCabe and Wilder unwittingly contributed to each other''s downfall and departure from the club they adored.

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Book SynopsisBenno: My Life in Football is a fascinating look into the footballing life of one of Coventry City''s greatest ever players, FA Cup-winning hero Dave Bennett.Follow the effervescent Benno''s life from battling racism on the streets of Manchester and throughout his career to climbing those famous steps at the home of English football.Benno had it tough from day one of his career. He was subjected to on-pitch racist abuse on his debut at Manchester City. He saw what should have been a shining moment of his career overshadowed when he was referred to as ''the little coloured boy'' during 1981 FA Cup Final commentary.But he fought back and overcame four leg breaks. He also enjoyed season after season in the top flight, becoming one of the country''s leading wingers in the process - and he did it all with a huge smile on his face. My Life in Football is Benno''s story - an extraordinary tale that reveals the best and worst of football in the 1980

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Book Synopsis'A brilliant insight into Liam's life in football' Kevin Moran'Insightful, often joyous, and hugely entertaining' Roddy Doyle'One of our country's great footballers, and definitely our most beautiful' - John GilesThe #2 Irish Bestseller"Being a footballer was my destiny." After being expelled from school for playing football for his country, fifteen-year-old Liam Brady travelled to London to join Arsenal, and soon became an indispensable part of their glorious 1970s team. Rightly considered one of the Republic of Ireland's best-ever footballers, he went on to enjoy successes with Juventus, Sampdoria and West Ham, as well as managing Celtic and Brighton and Hove, and becoming assistant manager of his national team. Today he is best known for his much-respected TV punditry and searingly intelligent insights into the game he adores. Full of honest insights, amusing anecdotes and recollections of extraordinary times, with Born to be a Footballer Brady delivers a compelling story of a fifty-year career that is unparalleled in Irish sport.Trade Review'Once in a generation you find a most gifted and talented player. In my generation of the 70s and 80s that player was Liam Brady. This book is a brilliant insight into Liam's life in football. He is honest about his ups and downs and will bring back great memories for all of us who grew up in this era' -- Kevin Moran'Any book about Liam Brady had better be good - and this one is very, very good. It is insightful, often joyous, and hugely entertaining. I loved it' -- Roddy Doyle'One of our country's great footballers, and definitely our most beautiful' -- John Giles'By any measure, an incredible life. And a book that more than does it justice' -- Malachy Clerkin

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Book SynopsisNew paperback edition - This is a heart-warming story of a war baby with aristocratic connections, who grew up with very little money and even less love.

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Book SynopsisThe Edinburgh University Hare and Hounds club of the 1960s was one of the most successful Scottish cross country teams in the history of the sportThis is their story

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Book SynopsisThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, 'Half Time', to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019.Trade ReviewThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, Half Time, to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019. -- Publisher: Y Lolfa

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Book SynopsisAcross the UK, into Europe and further afield, these are the training rides, races and journeys closest to his heart. From one-day classics in the Peak District and Snowdonia to the rolling roads of Tuscany and the wide-open vistas of New Zealand's South Island, these are the routes you'll want to ride alongside Britain's favourite cycling superstar.We ride out with him from his winter home in the south of France, and around his old Tuscan training base as a GB Olympic hopeful at the very start of his career. We take in the valley roads of the Tour de Suisse (overall winner, 2022), and the sinuous coastal roads of Milan - San Remo.We go long in Mallorca and bounce along the short cobbled secteurs of Belgium; we take in the vineyards around Adelaide and the bright blue skies of southern California.And we have guest rides too: from world champion Remco Evenepoel and his favourite winter training ride in Calpe, Spain; around Yorkshire, with Olympic mountain bike champion, world cyclo-cross champion and newly crowned winner of Strade Bianche, Tom Pidcock; in the wilds of western Ireland from champion sprinter Sam Bennett.Twenty rides, twenty adventures you'll never forget. All of this in a small-size hardback that can slide just as easily into your hand luggage as the back pocket of your jersey.

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Book Synopsis''The good news for those who loved THE ACCIDENTAL FOOTBALLER: this new book is even better. There were times as I read Pat Nevin''s account of his years running - or, trying to run - Motherwell, I had to remind myself to breathe. It''s a thrilling read - funny, nerve-wracking, precise and very, very human'' - Roddy DoyleSo, you fell into football by accident. You''ve played for Chelsea, Everton and your country at an international level. But what happens when you discover you''re in so deep that football has taken over your whole life?In his brilliant new memoir, Pat Nevin takes us on a journey to the less glamorous side of football. From Tranmere to Kilmarnock, he plays some of the best football he''s ever played. Then, in an unprecedented twist of fate, finds himself both player and Chief Executive of Scottish First Division club Motherwell.What follows is an entertaining and revealing tale of the side of football that you rarely see as Pat tries to keep the lid on simmering tensions between owner and the manager; travels in Lear jets one moment, but has to sell off half the team, the next. So much is madness, like being the manager''s boss, and his player at the same time; or discovering that the ground''s goalposts are higher on one side than on the other!And with impossible challenges at every corner, such as learning that their son is autistic, and the club hurtling towards administration, Pat strives to walk the impossible line between player, parent and boss.FOOTBALL AND HOW TO SURVIVE IT is a real one-off, uncovering the sport in all its complex, confusing and calamitous glory. Once you''ve read it, you may never look at the game in the same way again.

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Book SynopsisSultan is the official biography of Wasim Akram, the "sultan of swing", one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of cricket. For twenty years, Wasim Akram let his cricket do the talking – his electrifying left-arm pace, his explosive left-handed striking, his leadership and his inspiration. For another twenty years he kept his own counsel about those days, full of drama, controversy and even mystery, in a country, Pakistan, that to outsiders is a constant enigma. Until now. Sultan tells the story of cricket’s greatest left-arm bowler, and one of its greatest survivors, who was chosen from the streets of Lahore and groomed by Imran Khan to become champion of the world – man of the match in the final of the 1992 World Cup. Along the way were unforgettable rivalries with the greatest of his time, from Viv Richards and Ian Botham to Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne. Along the way, too, a backdrop of conspiracy and intrigue over ball tampering and match fixing about which Wasim finally sets the story straight. But there’s more: Sultan goes frankly into the crumbling and rebuilding of Wasim’s private life, marred by the tragedy of his first wife’s death and the torment of addiction. The result is an unprecedented insight into the life of a cricketer who revolutionised the game with his speed and swing, and a patriot buoyed and burdened by the expectation of one of the game’s most fanatical publics. Trade Review'He is a giant of our game.' – Pat Cummins 'Not only a great bloke but probably the greatest left arm quick the cricket world has seen.' – Allan Border 'Wasim Akram is one of the true greats of world cricket.' – Mitchell Starc 'History will judge him as one of the finest fast bowlers the game has produced.' – Steve Waugh 'Wasim ranks among those at the very top of cricket.' – Anil Kumble 'He was the most brilliant, inventive left-arm fast bowler the game as known.' – Mike Atherton 'I’m often asked ‘what is your all-time greatest team?’ I start with Akram and go from there.' – David Lloyd 'Wasim and Lancashire is a long love affair. Teammates loved him; supporters loved him. He loved them back. Our games were never over until Wasim had bowled his last ball.' – Neil Fairbrother 'Wasim was one of the greatest fast bowlers I have ever seen – a fantastic all rounder – one of the all-time greats.' – Nasser Hussain 'Great cricketers still marvel at the wonder of Wasim.' – Alan Wilkins 'Easily one of the most skilful bowlers I have played against and a tough competitor.' – Rahul Dravid 'Wasim was a master. He made the ball talk.' – Sachin Tendulkar

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Book Synopsis'TERRIFIC' - Daily Mail'ONE OF THE UNDISPUTED GREATS' - Sun'Why me? How could a boy from a Copenhagen tower block say I want to be a champion with Manchester United and Denmark and make it happen?'Peter Schmeichel is a giant of football, who won more Premier League titles (five) than any player in his position and captained Manchester United in the incomparable, last-gasp Treble-clinching win over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final. 'I don't believe a better goalkeeper played the game,' Sir Alex Ferguson said. One: My Autobiography is Schmeichel's story.In it, he takes us inside the remarkable, winning environment of a club that transformed football during the 1990s, and on to the pitch on that crazy, breathless night in Barcelona in 1999. From Ferguson's unique gifts to Eric Cantona's unique personality, he delivers a close-up and insightful portrait of United's golden era.However, One: My Autobiography goes way beyond the pitch.Schmeichel has an incredible family story to tell, starting with his father, Antoni, a brilliant Polish jazz musician who battled demons and for years kept a momentous secret from those around him. And he explores what he has been able to pass on to his own son, Kasper - himself a Premier League-winning goalkeeper and number one in the Danish national side.Peter's life after football, seldom straightforward, is described with astonishing candour. One: My Autobiography is about football, origins, journeys and legacy.Trade ReviewIt's comforting to know that one of the football heroes of my formative years is every bit the role model that I always thought him to be * On Magazine *One . . . is way beyond the glorified sporting diaries that crowd the shelves at this time of year . . . splendidly rendered * Irish Independent *Peter Schmeichel charts his exceptionally successful goalkeeping career alongside the remarkable story of his family * Irish Times’ Best Sport books of the year *The best autobiographies are always the ones written when the passing of time allows events to be considered and evaluated in proper perspective . . . Genuine candour runs through the story . . . A quite riveting story * Backpass Magazine *This is much more than the usual footballer's life story . . . It's warm, frank and conversational in tone . . . Terrific * Daily Mail, 2021's best books for sports fans *The story of one of the undisputed greats * Sun, Best Books for Christmas *A rollercoaster ride through the life of the Danish and Manchester United goalkeeper * Evening Standard, Memoirs of the Year *Engaging, honest and unsentimental . . . riveting * David Walsh, The Sunday Times *

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Book Synopsis'I pulled off my glasses and wiped my eyes. "That was perhaps the last race of my career..."'Deep down, Mark Cavendish thought he was finished. After illness, setbacks and clinical depression, the once fastest man in the world had been written off by most. And at the age of 36, even he believed his explosive cycling career would fade out with a whimper. The Manxman hadn't won a single Grand Tour stage in Italy, Spain or France since 2016.But then came his incredible resurrection at the 2021 Tour de France. Included on the Deceuninck Quick-Step team at the very last minute, only after Sam Bennett suffered an injury, Mark set about rewriting history. He claimed back the green jersey he first wore in 2011, and his four stage victories finally saw him matching Belgian legend Eddy Merckx's all-time record of 34 Tour de France stage wins. Cycling greats are never content, and Cav's dogged determination and inner strength had earned him the record that few believed he could ever achieve. This is his own intimate account of that race, right from the saddle of the miracle tour.

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Book Synopsis'Fantastic book written by a true LFC legend.' Jurgen Klopp'George Sephton is part of the brickwork of Liverpool Football Club and was witness to so many iconic moments. He has lived through a huge chunk of our history, from when Liverpool were in the Second Division, when he used to come to Anfield with his father, all the way to being crowned World Club and Premier League champions. It's been a rollercoaster ride, and George has been there for all the ups and downs - but mainly the ups.' Sir Kenny Dalglish'The voice of George Sephton has been heard at Anfield for so long that you could be forgiven for imagining him poised with a wind-up gramophone and a 78-rpm record of Gerry with his ukulele and a single Pacemaker, on a comb and tissue paper, piping Alan A'Court and Alf Arrowsmith onto the field.' Elvis CostelloGeorge Sephton's relationship with Liverpool Football Club began in 1971 when he wrote to the club secretary applying to be the stadium announcer. His first match also marked the debut of Kevin Keegan. For the past fifty years, Sephton has been at Anfield for all but a handful of home fixtures, as well as travelling with the team to major finals. From the highs of winning numerous league titles and European Cups, to the lows of Heysel and Hillsborough, Sephton has been with Liverpool through it all. From encounters with great managers and legendary players - from Bill Shankly to Kenny Dalglish, John Barnes to Jurgen Klopp, he tells his unique and entertaining story of the greatest club in the world.Table of Contentsi: Foreword ii: 'Sleeve Notes' iii: Prologue 1: Part One: The Fifties and Sixties 2: Part Two: The Seventies 3: Part Three: The Eighties 4: Part Four: The Nineties 5: Part Five: The 2000s 6: Part Six: The 2010s 7: Epilogue 8: Acknowledgements 9: Plate Section Photography Credits 10: Index

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Book SynopsisA fascinating insider''s look at life behind-the-scenes at Formula One.''An essential read'' AUTOSPORT''A must for the real inside story'' FORMULA 1 RACING''Recommended for anyone interested in F1 on the inside'' MOTORING NEWSFormula One Grand Prix mechanic Steve Matchett takes the reader on a compelling journey through his life in the pit-lane, from his beginnings as a young apprentice, through his time at Ferrari and BMW to his later success with Benetton. He gives eye-witness views of the great drivers, including Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna. He also talks of key Benetton personalities, and explains how the team was transformed into a strong, competitive organisation, winning three World Championships. His determination and frustration in trying - and eventually succeeding - to break into the high-pressure world of Formula One leaps off the page.Trade ReviewA must for the real inside story * FORMULA 1 RACING *Every so often, in the endless stream of biographies churned out by the Formula One book industry, something different emerges. This is it. Recommended for anyone interested in F1 on the inside * MOTORING NEWS *An essential read * AUTOSPORT *

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Book SynopsisThe legendary seven-time CrossFit Games champion and Olympic athlete shares lessons from her inspiring story of leveling up her performance, embracing failure, and fiercely taking on impossible goals.Tia Toomey, the world''s fittest woman, has won the CrossFit Games an incredible seven times and is undeniably a true warrior. She has also trained for the Winter Olympics in bobsledding, competed in the Summer Olympics in weightlifting and was a Commonwealth Games gold medalist. She is, in short, one of the most accomplished and dominant athletes in human history. But for Tia physical fitness is only a small part of overall strength. More important is building mental toughness. In THE HEART IS THE STRONGEST MUSCLE, Tia shows how she reached elite levels by focusing on her why. By always having a clear picture of her purpose - what drives her heart - she can push through the toughest challenges. From the early days of her fitness journey to the peak performance that has put her atop the podium in the CrossFit Games, Tia reveals the secrets, struggles, and successes that have made her a killer competitor. Nothing comes easy, but in THE HEART IS THE STRONGEST MUSCLE, Tia will show you how to build your own unstoppable mindset. Whether you are already a serious athlete or someone looking to conquer a new challenge, you''ll be able to use her methods to keep winning.Trade ReviewTia Toomey is one of the greatest athletes in the history of sports. You don't become that without a bulletproof mindset. Champions are built in the mind first, and Tia understands exactly how to do that -- Andy Frisella, entrepreneur, creator of 75 Hard and Real AF podcastTia Toomey knows that being a fierce competitor is about more than just the body. Her wisdom in this book will help keep your mind sharp and heart full -- Michael Easter, author of THE COMFORT CRISIS and SCARCITY BRAINI have been honored to closely follow the journey and success of Tia Toomey as a high-level CrossFit athlete. But more impressive has been following her development and journey as a person. This book gives a wonderful glimpse into all aspects of her amazing journey -- Dave Castro, director and programmer of the CrossFit GamesLearning to have grit and mental toughness is something all of us need to constantly be working on. Having the opportunity to train with Tia showed me her persistence and resilience to keep fighting and pushing back, even when she was being challenged mentally and physically. The fire she has to never quit is extremely rare. This is a must-read for every person who wants to learn from one of the best at being mentally prepared! -- Josh Bridges, US Navy Seal, multiple CrossFit Games athleteThrough nothing but hard work Tia has shown what the human body is capable of time and time again. Inspiring millions to pick themselves up and keep moving forward is what this book is all about. It puts fire in my belly reading what I already knew ... Tia is the definition of hard work pays off -- Eddie Hall, World’s Strongest Man 2017

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Book SynopsisMountaintops have long been seen as sacred places, home to gods and dreams. In one climbing year Peter Boardman visited three very different sacred mountains.He began in the New Year, on the South Face of the Carstensz Pyramid in New Guinea. This shark’s fin of steep limestone walls and sweeping glaciers is the highest point between the Andes and the Himalaya, and one of the most inaccessible, rising above thick jungle inhabited by warring Stone Age tribes.During the spring Boardman was on more familiar, if hardly more reassuring, ground, making a four-man, oxygen-free attempt on the world’s third highest peak, Kangchenjunga. Hurricane-force winds beat back their first two bids on the unclimbed North Ridge, but they eventually stood within feet of the summit – leaving the final few yards untrodden in deference to the inhabiting deity.In October, he was back in the Himalaya and climbing the mountain most sacred to the Sherpas: the twin-summited Gauri Sankar. Renowned for its technical difficulty and spectacular profile, it is aptly dubbed the Eiger of the Himalaya and Boardman’s first ascent of the South Summit took a committing and gruelling twenty-three days.Three sacred mountains, three very different expeditions, all superbly captured by Boardman in Sacred Summits, his second book, first published shortly after his death in 1982. Combining the excitement of extreme climbing with acute observation of life in the mountains, this is an amusing, dramatic, poignant and thought-provoking book, amply fulfilling the promise of Boardman’s first title, The Shining Mountain, for which he won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize in 1979.Trade Review'A poignant record of [Boardman's] great skill and determination as a mountaineer.' - J.H. Emlyn Jones, Alpine JournalTable of ContentsForeword by Chris Bonington ‘A Great Partnership’Part One Snow Mountains Of New GuineaChapter One Sacred SummitsChapter Two Troubled ParadiseChapter Three AmakaneChapter Four CarstenszChapter Five DugunduguChapter Six An Impossible DreamChapter Seven Back From The Stone AgePart Two KangchenjungaChapter Eight SpringChapter Nine SéracsChapter Ten The WallChapter Eleven Ordeal By StormChapter Twelve Before DawnChapter Thirteen Softly To The Untrodden SummitChapter Fourteen Down WindChapter Fifteen SummerPart Three Gauri SankarChapter Sixteen First TimeChapter Seventeen Knight MovesChapter Eighteen BorderlineChapter Nineteen Cliffs Of FallChapter Twenty Final ChoiceChapter Twenty One TseringmaChapter Twenty Two Autumn … To Earth With LoveChapter Twenty Three WinterAcknowledgements

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Book Synopsis* SHORTLISTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS *Robin Smith was one of England's most popular cricketers of the 1990s. The Judge, as he was known to all, took on some of the most dangerous fast bowlers of all time with a skill and fearlessness that ensured hero status. His savage square cut drew roars of approval from fans all around the world, especially those of his beloved England and Hampshire. But when he was prematurely dumped from the England set-up at the age of 32, he had to face his toughest opponent of all - himself. Smith suffered a debilitating loss of identity, especially when he retired from professional cricket in 2003, and struggled to deal with the contradictions in his personality. Was he the Judge, the fearless warrior, or Robin Smith, the frantic worrier? Without a support structure to transition from cricket to the outside world, Smith suffered from mental health, alcohol, marital and financial problems until he hit rock bottom and planned to take his own life. In The Judge - More than Just a Game, he revisits his experience of extreme darkness and challenges received wisdom about masculinity and mental health. He also shares the many highs and lows of his eventful international and county career, including his exhilarating battles with the West Indies and his struggles against mystery spin. And he reflects fondly on a time when cricketers worked hard and partied even harder; a time almost unrecognisable to the modern day.Trade ReviewA fine sports autobiography. It is candid and moving without being mawkish or forgetting its readers will also primarily be cricket fans * Daily Telegraph *An incredibly moving yet uplifting account of his career of high achievement and fall to the depths of mental illness * Daily Mail *A profoundly moving book * Guardian *Robin Smith is one of the most-loved cricketers of his era… [The Judge] documents his time in the game, as well as the harrowing struggles he suffered when the eyes went, the runs stopped, and real life intruded. Recommended * Wisden Cricket Monthly *This is an engaging, but often uncomfortable read which explains why it’s a contender for sports book of the year * UK Press Syndication *

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Book SynopsisThey called him 'Hands of Stone'. In his own words, and for the first time, Roberto Duran tells his unbelievable story in I Am Duran: The Autobiography of Robert Duran. From the mean streets of Panama to the bright lights of Las Vegas, blazing a trail through the golden decade of boxing, Duran, in unflinching form, dispels myths and lays bare the cost of conquering the world. He also returns to the debacle that entered sporting folklore during his rematch with Sugar Ray Leonard, when he uttered the infamous words 'no mas' – no more.Starting life in abject poverty as the illegitimate son of a serving US soldier, Duran quickly realized that his fists could both protect him on the streets and put food on the table. His reputation in and out of the ring travelled the corridors of boxing power on the day, for a bet, he knocked down a horse with a single punch.From his stunning debut in New York to the glorious defeat of Sugar Ray Leonard, the world titles and the chaos that ensued after the No Mas encounter, Duran's explosive life in the ring was matched only by the volatility outside of it, as he lurched from kingmaker to bankruptcy, before the ultimate ending of a bloody comeback and, finally, redemption.Trade ReviewMy hero and inspiration, and the greatest boxer of his generation. An unbelievable story * Ricky Hatton *If a pound-for-pound list of boxing autobiographies existed, this fascinating account of his life would sit comfortably on it. * Marc Deanie, Boxing Truth *I was drawn in and kept reading and before I knew I was through the book and feeling, really feeling, like I just sat down to a long dinner and beers after in some open Panamanian café with Durán sitting across from me just speaking with no filter, none at all. * Frank Miniter Forbes *

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Book SynopsisFollowing in his late father's footsteps, Tai Woffinden made his name as Britain's most successful speedway rider ever. Known for his speed on the tracks and his quirky tattoos, he is a popular figure within the sport and beyond it.With a vast array of titles to his name, including youngest ever Grand Prix World Champion, achieved at the age of twenty-three, Tai has come a long way from his Scunthorpe roots. His love affair with speedway began when his family emigrated to Australia while he was a child, where he became a local champion while still at school. He has not been without his share of struggles, however. In 2010, he lost his father, the popular speedway rider Rob Woffinden, to cancer, which, combined with issues within his team, resulted in a difficult season. Then, in 2019, during his defence of his World Championship, he crashed heavily during a race in Poland and was badly injured, breaking his back.Such setbacks do not keep true champions down for long, however - Tai will be back, to dazzle his thousands of fans with his unique combination of flamboyant skill and raw courage. Told with his trademark honesty and directness, his autobiography provides an eye-opening insight into the life of one of speedway's greatest talents and most beloved stars.© images; not to be copied or reproduced without permission.

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Book SynopsisGet ready for the Euros by journeying through the iconic and searingly honest story of one of the country''s best ever footballers''A truly world class career . . . This is a must read'' 5***** READER REVIEW''An astonishing tale of commitment, loyalty and determination'' 5***** READER REVIEW''A heart on sleeve account of success and failure'' 5***** READER REVIEW________Steven Gerrard is a phenomenon. He has played over 700 games for his beloved Liverpool and is the third most capped player in English football. He is one of the greatest sportsman of his generation.In My Story Gerrard speaks fully and frankly about his extraordinary playing career, opening up about the key matches and moments to give us the view from on the pitch. His exhilarating accounts of winning and losing while staying loyal to one club through good and bad tell us about his commitment both to the game and to Liverpool. It''s a story

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling autobiography of the greatest rugby player of our time: Brian O''Driscoll.Since 1999, when he made his international debut, there has been no greater player in world rugby than Brian O''Driscoll. In 2010 Rugby World magazine named him its world player of the decade - and since then the legend has only grown.Now, at the end of his amazing career - which culminated in fairy-tale fashion with Ireland''s victory in the 2014 Six Nations championship - he tells his own story. Honest, gritty and thoughtful, Brian O''Driscoll''s Autobiography is not just an essential sports book. It is an essential book about family, friends, hard work, courage and imagination.''Honest, charming and revealing - a thoroughly good read'' Rugby World''A thoroughly enjoyable read ... After reading The Test I warmed even more to O''Driscoll as a player and a man. He stood for a new ethos in Irish sport that refused to accept mediocrity or glorious failure'' Fergal Keane, Irish Times''O''Driscoll''s honesty ... takes the reader to a place they simply have not been before'' Vincent Hogan, Irish Independent''A must-read insight into the life and mind of Ireland''s greatest rugby player'' Irish Mail on Sunday''There are fascinating insights into the lengths he was willing to go to perform at the highest level'' Sunday Business PostBestseller, April 2015Trade ReviewA thoroughly enjoyable read ... After reading The Test I warmed even more to O'Driscoll as a player and a man. He stood for a new ethos in Irish sport that refused to accept mediocrity or glorious failure -- Fergal Keane * Irish Times *O'Driscoll's honesty ... takes the reader to a place they simply have not been before -- Vincent Hogan * Irish Independent *The Test allows the reader to get to know O'Driscoll the person, the husband, the father and the friend. It is honest, charming and revealing - a thoroughly good read * Rugby World *A must-read insight into the life and mind of Ireland's greatest rugby player * Irish Mail on Sunday *There are fascinating insights into the lengths he was willing to go to perform at the highest level * Sunday Business Post *

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Book SynopsisIn 1986, the legendary fell runner Joss Naylor completed a continuous circuit of all 214 Wainwright fells in the Lake District, covering a staggering distance of over 300 miles – plus many thousands of metres of ascent – in only seven days and one hour.Those in the know thought that this record would never be beaten. It is the ultimate British ultramarathon. The person taking on this superhuman challenge would have to be willing to push harder and suffer more than ever before. There is no Map in Hell tells the story of a man willing to do just that.In 2014, Steve Birkinshaw made an attempt at setting a new record. With a background of nearly forty years of running elite orienteering races and extreme-distance fell running over the toughest terrain, if he couldn’t do it, surely no one could. But the Wainwrights challenge is in a different league: aspirants need to complete two marathons and over 5,000 metres of ascent every day for a week.With a foreword by Joss Naylor, There is no Map in Hell recounts Birkinshaw’s preparation, training and mile-by-mile experience of the extraordinary and sometimes hellish demands he made of his mind and body, and the physiological aftermath of such a feat. His deep love of the fells, phenomenal strength and tenacity are awe inspiring, and testimony to athletes and onlookers alike that ‘in order to attain the impossible, one must attempt the absurd’.Trade Review'An epic account of an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable athlete.' (Richard Askwith, author of Feet in the Clouds and Running Free); 'The world of ultra running has many ordinary people doing extraordinary things, but none more so than Steve Birkinshaw. In this book Steve tells his own remarkable story from his childhood exploits in orienteering to his record-breaking six-day 214-peak Wainwrights run. The aftermath of this huge effort saw Steve suffer with an unknown illness linked with fatigue, and he tells this side of his story with openness and emotion. There is no Map In Hell is a story of a family man with a yearning for adventure in the hills, and is a book that any runner will love.' (Andy Nuttall, ULTRA magazine); 'A very entertaining, revealing and highly readable account of this top mountain runner's trials and tribulations on trail races and record-breaking attempts - most notably the Wainwrights. It's a fascinating insight into what drives Steve to push himself quite so incredibly hard. A must-read this summer!' (Claire Maxted, Trail Running magazine); 'This is a captivating account of a seriously extreme journey. The tales of preparation and recovery are as fascinating as the meticulous detail of the record breaking run itself.' (David McCabe, Editor of The Fellrunner magazine); 'He modestly describes the toll it takes as his body gradually disintegrates over the seven days, and also the difficulties the fatigue give him afterwards. If you like extreme challenges, this is a brilliant unravelling of the preparation and effects of Steve's navigation to and through hell.' (Steve Chilton, fell runner and author of several popular running books); 'This book has been a discovery of a thorough, deep, loving, thoughtful man with a core of steel. Steve took the level of what humans (or rather Steve) can endure to the furthest possible imaginable level.' (Nicky Spinks, elite fell runner); 'Tough, gritty, humane, and funny, Steve shows the sport and the community in its true light. An inspirational tale of human endeavour in the mountains, this is the stuff of fell-running legend'. (Jasmin Paris, elite fell runner); 'A wince-inducing insight into what it takes to break epic fell-running records, told with the sort of reluctance and humility that makes Birkinshaw all the more of a hero. I loved the book.' (Damian Hall, outdoor journalist and ultramarathon runner); 'The book is a fascinating account of what makes Steve tick and I am seriously impressed with both Steve's determination and the book. The book is a compelling read by a nice but extremely tough person that has pushed his body to the limit of what it can take.' (Billy Bland, Bob Graham Round record holder and former champion fell runner); 'There is no Map in Hell is a frank, personal, yet inspiring account of an ultra-endurance feat few could comprehend. Steve's book is a tour-de-force of the Lake District Wainwrights, detailing a once in a generation record, which was only possible thanks Steve's lifetime of mountain running experience, and the strength of personality to suck up suffering like few could imagine.' (Shane Ohly, Race Director - Berghaus Dragon's Back Race). There is no Map in Hell puts meat on the bones of the raw statistics of such a mammoth physical and mental effort, without pathos. He [Steve] provides an insight into how he came to be one of Britain's top ultrarunners; the build-up to the Wainwrights attempt and the massive amount of help he had from many people to enable him to accomplish his astonishing feat. (Bob Smith, Editor of Grough magazine); There is no Map in Hell shares Steve's quest to break a record. You'll be side by side with him, experiencing his preparation, training and gruelling mile-by-mile run. This book will give you confidence to keep working towards your goals. (Evie Serventi, Running magazine).Table of ContentsForeword by Joss Naylor MBEPart 1 I have always run1. Starting out2. Running takes over3. The Bob Graham Round4. The Ramsay Round and the Paddy Buckley Round5. 2008 Lakeland 1006. 2009 Lake District 24-hour Record Attempt7. 2009 Lakeland 1008. 2010 Lake District 24-hour Record Attempt9. 2012 Berghaus Dragon's Back RacePart 2 Considering the challenge10. The Wainwrights11. Previous Wainwright runners12. The Plan13. Multiple Sclerosis: additional motivation14. A logistical mountain to climb15. A new training regime16. Making a movie17. Two-week countdownPart 3 Taking on the Wainwrights18. Day One19. Day Two20. Day Three21. Day Four22. Day Five23. Day Six24. Day SevenPart 4 The aftermathEpilogueBibliographyAppendix.

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Book SynopsisYou could argue that Dennis Amiss’ seven-decade cricket career started the day he was born, when his parents named him after not one but two celebrated cricketers.Or maybe it started when he was 7, sneaking into the Birmingham Cooperative Society to play a few matches with his friends – as long as they avoided the groundskeeper!Or perhaps it was on 7 April 1958; not only his fifteenth birthday, but also his first day as a professional cricketer.Whatever day you start on, there’s no denying that Amiss has had an extraordinary career. He is one of England’s cricketing greats, with 100 first-class hundreds to his name and a place as one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year. Hugely well-respected on and off the pitch, he didn’t shy away from controversy, taking part in the 1982 ‘Rebel Tour’ of Apartheid South Africa, and somehow ending up in the midst of the battle between World Series Cricket and the England Cricket Board.Not Out at Close of Play is the story of how passion, commitment and practice – and no small amount of stubbornness! – took a boy from the backstreets of Birmingham to worldwide cricket stardom.Trade ReviewDennis was not only one of the finest batsmen of his generation, he was a cricket innovator and influencer who then also went on to become a very successful administrator at the highest levels of the game. He has been a huge influence on the direction of my own career and I am extremely grateful to him for all of his support. -- Ashley Giles MBE MSDDennis is a Warwickshire legend on and off the field. One of best batters of his generation, he set the standard for players to follow. He was a hero of mine growing up and now I have the pleasure of calling him my friend. -- Ian Bell MBE

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Book SynopsisThe SUNDAY TIMES bestselling memoir from the Tour de France cyclist who lifts the lid on his drug use and return to sport.By his eighteenth birthday David Millar was living and racing in France, sleeping in rented rooms, tipped to be the next English-speaking Tour winner. A year later he''d realised the dream and signed a professional contract. He perhaps lived the high life a little too enthusiastically - he broke his heel in a fall from a roof after too much drink, and before long the pressure to succeed had tipped over into doping. Here, in a full and frank autobiography, David Millar recounts the story from the inside: he doped because ''cycling''s drug culture was like white noise'', and because of peer pressure. ''I doped for money and glory in order to guarantee the continuation of my status.'' Five years on from his arrest, Millar is clean and reflective, and holds nothing back in this account of his dark years.Trade ReviewMillar is never less than candid in a memoir that is part confessional, part catharsis. * THE SCOTSMAN *His description of that agonising 2010 mountain stage, during which he scoured the depths of his soul while falling helplessly behind the rest of the field, deserves to stand among the great first-person accounts of sporting experience. -- Richard Williams * THE GUARDIAN *His career almost destroyed by a doping scandal in 2004, the cycling champion faces his demons in this eloquent and revelatory memoir. Millar's gutsy slog to restore his reputation is inspirational. * THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SEVEN Magazine *This is the superbly narrated story of one man's evolution from talented ingenue to disillusioned doper and back again... one of the very best snapshots of professional cycling in the noughties. * OUTDOOR FITNESS *Highly articulate, Millar has written a courageously combative book that both exposes the conditions that create drug cheating and explains how his sport has to confront those conditions if it is to break from this most murky of pasts. -- Mark Perryman * PHILOSOPHY FOOTBALL *The thoughtful British doper-turned-campaigner delivers an eloquent, highly rated memoir about life in troubled peloton. -- Simon Usborne * THE INDEPENDENT *

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Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER FROM CRICKET'S HUGELY POPULAR COMMENTATOR With his infectious enthusiasm for the game, David 'Bumble' Lloyd blends immense knowledge and experience with an eye for the quirky detail and an unending fund of brilliant stories. This definitive autobiography recalls his childhood in Accrington, Lancashire, when, after a long day playing cricket in the street, he would get his chance to wash himself in his family's bath - but only after his parents and uncle had taken their turn first. From being last in the tin bath, he moved on to make his debut for Lancashire while still in his teens, eventually earning an England call-up, when he had to face the pace of Lillee and Thomson - with painful and eye-watering consequences. After retiring as a player, he became an umpire and then England coach during the 1990s, before eventually turning to commentary with Sky Sports. After spendin

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Book SynopsisThe perfect Father's Day sports book gift'A brilliant insight into Liam's life in football' - Kevin Moran'Insightful, often joyous, and hugely entertaining. I loved it' - Roddy Doyle'One of our country's great footballers, and definitely our most beautiful' - John GilesAfter being expelled from school for playing football for his country, fifteen-year-old Liam Brady travelled to London to join Arsenal, and soon became an indispensable part of their glorious 1970s team. Rightly considered one of the Republic of Ireland's best-ever footballers, he went on to enjoy successes with Juventus, Sampdoria and West Ham, as well as managing Celtic and Brighton and Hove, and becoming assistant manager of his national team. Today he is best known for his much-respected TV punditry and searingly intelligent insights into the game he adores. Full of honest insights, amusing anecdotes and rec

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Book SynopsisHigh jinx and japes from Soccer Saturday''s roving reporter extraordinaire, Chris Kammy Kamara, whose boyish enthusiasm and often baffling, at-the-ground football reportage has given him cult status and an army of fans.Over the past decade, football results programme Soccer Saturday has become a television phenomenon, delivering goals and drama via a raft of ex-professional players positioned in TV studios and on precarious gangplanks in rusting stadiums around the country.At the heart of this success is free-wheeling pundit and roving reporter extraordinaire, Chris Kammy Kamara, the former footballer-turned-manager-turned-cult hero who has astounded and dumbfounded a legion of armchair fans with his crackpot catchphrases, hyperactive reporting style and Lionel Richie haircut.Mr Unbelievable is his rags to riches tale. As a player, Kammy trawled football''s outposts with the likes of Bradford City, Stoke City and Portsmouth where he suffered the slings, arrows and hurled bananas of racTrade Review"This book is unbelievable!" Jeff Stelling

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Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERHilarious, and straight talking but also articulate and insightful I am just hugely fond of this guy' Eddie JonesJames Haskell: what a flanker, what a book'Rugby WorldI'd like to be remembered as a player who showed that you can be incredibly professional but also a lot of fun a bit of a joker in the changing room, but the ultimate competitor on the pitch. That should have been the subtitle of this book, really'One of rugby's most ferocious flankers and biggest characters, James Haskell has had an extraordinary, global experience of the game, having played for the Wasps, Northampton and England, and in New Zealand, France and Japan. After seventeen years and with 77 international caps under his sizeable belt, he has a shitload to say about rugby life from pitch to pub and everywhere in between.In What A Flanker, Haskell sheds fresh light on the dynamics and the day-to-day of the game. Whether he's recalling the most brutal team socials; dispelling the myth

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Book SynopsisIt's a tennis story. It's a family story. It's a teamwork story. It's the story of how I got to where and who I am today.I''m only in my mid-twenties, and some might think that''s young to write a memoir. But it''s important to reflect on every part of the journey, especially the end. The timing is perfect to share my story, from the first time I picked up a racquet as a five-year-old girl in Ipswich to the night I packed up my tennis bag at Melbourne Park after winning the 2022 Australian Open. Now I can look back at the 20 years in between and think carefully through the work and the play, the smiles and the tears, and all the people who helped along the way, be it my first ever coach, Jim Joyce, or my longtime one, Craig Tyzzer.My Dream Time follows me on my path to being the best I could be, not just as an athlete but as a person. How do you conquer nerves and anxiety? How do you deal with defeat, or pain? What drives you to succeed and what happens when you do? The answers tell m

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Book SynopsisCo-author Roy Collins has been a Sports columnist for over 16 years and is a personal friend of George Best. He was a chief sports writer on Today for ten years followed by the People Sport, and currently the Guardian and Sunday Telegraph.Trade ReviewBrilliantly raw * Sunday Times *His autobiography tells everything...this is a powerful, unexpectedly moving story * The Mirror *Fascinating-honest to the point of self-laceration-Best will always remain a breath-taking example of supreme talent and courage * Independent *Unquestionably the greatest -- Sir Alex FergusonWhere this book differs from the others - and there have been a few - is in Best's attempts to face his demons -- Michael Parkinson * Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE BOARDMAN TASKER PRIZE 2008Metro magazine recently wrote that Andy Kirkpatrick makes Ray Mears look like Paris Hilton. Words like boldness, adventure and risk were surely coined especially for him. As one of the world''s most accomplished mountaineers and big-wall climbers, he goes vertically where other climbers (to say nothing of the general public) fear to tread.For the first time, this cult hero of vertical rock has written a book, in which his thirteen-day ascent of Reticent Wall on El Capitan in California - the hardest big-wall climb ever soloed by a Briton - frames a challenging autobiography. From childhood on a grim inner-city housing estate in Hull, the story moves through horrific encounters and unique athletic achievements at the extremes of the earth. As he writes, ''Climbs like this make no sense ... the chances of dying on the route are high.'' Yet Andy, in his thirties with young children, has everything to live for. This is the pTrade ReviewPsychovertical is a powerful if intensely personal book, well written, sometimes brilliantly so. It charts Kirkpatrick's fractured upbringing and subsequent escape to a life of extreme climbing and close calls... He is a clear, spare writer, and a highly visual one. The descriptions of climbing are among the best I've ever read... Kirkpatrick chooses words with the same care that he chooses a wire. -- Ed Douglas * Climber *Kirkpatrick's autobiography sparkles with black humour...He writes with great eloquence on the fears of an extreme craftsman pursuing his crazy self-imposed task * Mail on Sunday *Thrilling ... Most compelling are his psychological battles, as self-belief and a dry sense of humour ultimately propel him to the top * Financial Times *Andy is one of the funniest of Britain's top climbers and represents what is best in modern British climbing: boldness, innovation, sense of humour, irreverence, commitment, and an appetite for risk. * Chris Bonington *Entertaining, funny and a bit mental * Zoo *

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Book SynopsisWhen Ellen finished the Vendee Globe, yachting''s toughest race aged just 24 the nation took her to it''s heart. The depth of the affection for Ellen is extraordinary - she makes people feel like they can do anything!This is her story, written intrue Ellen style, in her own words, without the help of a ghost writer.Passionate, dramatic and and deeply affecting, her story will move and inspire all who read it.

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Book SynopsisTHE PHENOMENAL MEMOIR OF A NATIONAL TREASUREAfter Kellie Harrington won gold at the Tokyo Olympics, the Irish public recognized her as not merely a sporting hero, but a deeply inspirational human being. Now, Kellie tells the story of her unlikely journey to the top, and of the many obstacles and setbacks she overcame along the way.Growing up in Dublin''s north inner city, Kellie was in danger of going down the wrong path in life before she discovered boxing. The local boxing club was all-male and initially wouldn''t let her join, but she persisted.She was not an overnight success. For years she struggled in international competition. At times she felt unsupported by the national boxing set-up. More than once she considered giving up the sport. But some spark of ambition and love for boxing kept her going, and gradually she made herself world class.Writing with Roddy Doyle, the award-winning author of The Commitments, Kellie tells the story of her unlikely rise to greatness and her continuing dedication to living a normal life - which has involved remaining an amateur boxer and keeping the job she loves, at a Dublin psychiatric hospital. She shares exceptionally vivid and revealing details about being a woman in a historically male sport, and about how she manages her body and her mind. It is a vastly inspiring look inside the life and psychology of a woman who is both brilliantly ordinary and utterly exceptional.Trade ReviewReaders will be with her every step of the way . . . her voice is so radiant -- Tommy Conlon * Sunday Independent *Doyle has captured the full Kellie experience here, all heart and laughs and a mouth like a sailor -- Malachy Clerkin * Irish Times *A terrific collaboration. Kellie Harrington's story is unique . . . Doyle coaxes her journey to Olympic gold out of her with warmth, wit and tenderness * Irish Times Books of the Year *By the end of this read, you know exactly how to feel about Kellie's life so far. Extraordinary. And the book leaves you in one position: in Kellie's corner -- Sinéad Kissane * Irish Independent *Perfectly capture[s] the story of a champion who couldn't be stopped from reaching her dreams * Irish Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisIn his first memoir written especially for young readers, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will focus on his relationships with several important coaches in his life - including his father, his high-school coach and Coach Wooden - as he tells the story of his life and career. At one time, Lew Alcindor was just another kid from New York City with all the usual problems: He struggled with fitting in, with pleasing a strict father, and with overcoming shyness that made him feel socially awkward. But with a talent for basketball, and an unmatched team of supporters, Lew Alcindor was able to transform and to become Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.From a childhood made difficult by racism and prejudice to a record-smashing career on the basketball court as an adult, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar''s life was packed with coaches who taught him right from wrong and led him on the path to greatness. His parents, coaches Jack Donahue and John Wooden, Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee, and many others played important roles in Abdul-Jabbar''s life and sparked him to become an activist for social change and advancement. The inspiration from those around him, and his drive to find his own path in life, are highlighted in this personal and awe-inspiriting journey.

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Book SynopsisThe offical biography of one of wrestling's most legendary stars.

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Book SynopsisIn 2008, Mark Beaumont smashed the world record for cycling around the world, by an astonishing 81 days. His race against the clock took him through the toughest terrain and the most demanding of conditions. In 2009, Mark set out on his second ultra-endurance challenge. And this one would involve some very big mountains.The Man Who Cycled the Americas tells the story of a 15,000 mile expedition that once again broke the barriers of human achievement. To pedal the longest mountain range on the planet, solo and unsupported, presented its own unique difficulties. But no man had ever previously summited the continents'' two highest peaks, Mt McKinley in Alaska and Aconcagua in Argentina, in the same climbing season, let alone cycling between them. Oh, and Mark had never even been up Ben Nevis before.Full of his trademark charm, warmth and fascination with seeing the world at the pace of a bicycle, Mark Beaumont''s second book is a testament to his love of adventurTrade ReviewInteresting, engaging and truly knackering just reading about it * London Cyclist *One of the highlights of Beaumont's writing is the way he captures the subtle nuances of life... a brilliant read that really captured my imagination -- Mary Bor * curiousbookfans.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisAs a Premiership, World Cup and Grand Slam winner, no one better embodies the charisma and the colour of English rugbys greatest era than Lawrence Dallaglio. He has some story to tell, not just of the formidable exploits on the field, but an extraordinary life off it. His only sister, Francesca, was the youngest to perish in the Marchioness disaster and her death at 19 remains the great sadness of his life. In addition to this and his much-talked about England exploits, he also led his club Wasps to the summit of European rugby, winning two Heineken Cups and three consecutive English Premiership titles. Full of drama, controversy and great sadness, Lawrence Dallaglios story the last of the great World Cup heroes is the one every rugby fan has been waiting to read.Trade Review'Uncontrollably frank...a terrific book' * Daily Telegraph *'Dallaglio, as befits his hardman persona, takes no prisoners' * Guardian *'One of the best autobiographies of the year... beautifully written' * Daily Telegraph *'It's top' * Jeremy Clarkson, Top Gear *'Never less than compelling' * Mariella Frostrup, The Book Show *'By no means just for rugby heads' * Evening Standard *'An engaging tale' * Daily Express *'lucid, detailed and frank' * The Times *'Conveyed with the right balance of truth and delicacy: there is nothing prurient, yet the emotional passages are extremely moving, which is not something you can say about many rugby books' * Daily Telegraph *'The story of a true English sporting hero, albeit a flawed one for whom tragedy as well as disgrace has been a companion. Pretty much everything is confronted head on, exactly as Dallaglio played, indeed plays' * Daily Mail *

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Book Synopsis''If we can sell Newcastle Brown to Japan, and if Wimbledon can make it to the First Division, there is surely no achievement beyond our reach.'' Margaret ThatcherThe Crazy Gang is the story of a football miracle. Promoted to the Football League in 1977, Wimbledon FC was a small team from south London that against the odds went all the way to the top of the First Division, then to win the FA Cup, in only just over a decade. With no money, scant resources and a blend of youth players and offcuts from other clubs, they were christened ''Rag-Arse Rovers''. They played hard on the pitch and partied hard off it.Dave ''Harry'' Bassett was the manager who drilled a fierce fighting spirit into his players, an unbreakable team ethos, but he was also an underrated master tactician and pioneer of innovative training methods. Wally Downes was the midfield fulcrum of the Dons, but also the ringleader for the various acts of debauchery and general silliness that earned the club thTrade ReviewA barrel of laughs. * The Sun *As you'd expect, it's warts and all, muck and bullets and any other cliché you care to mention. Don't dare miss it! * Sheffield Star *

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Book SynopsisYou have to fight to reach your dreams.From his start as the smallest kid on the team to his emergence as the greatest soccer player in the world, Lionel Messi's journey to stardom is a master class in excellence. The Atomic Flea shattered records with his nimble, left-footed dribbling and prolific goal scoring, and won millions of fans on his beleaguered quest to win the World Cup. Messi: Life Lessons from a Legend details #10's biggest struggles and triumphs playing for Barcelona, Argentina, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami. His story acts as a road map to success for anyone with the courage and passion to chase their own dreams.- Inspiring quotes from Messi himself- A biographical look at Messi's early years, his rise to fame, and his most spectacular achievements- Original full-color art that captures the spirit of a champion- Guiding truths and hard-earned lessons to help you crush your own goals

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Book Synopsis''A welcome look at the life of a fascinating rider and man''Cycling Plus''Maurice has lived a hell of a life. The world needs to hear about it''Ned Boulting''This book is an inspiration to those who want to achieve in both sport and life''Phil Liggett MBEMaurice Burton rose above racism in British society and sport to triumph over adversity. This is the long-awaited, authorised biography of a ground-breaking British cyclist.On a still summer's evening at Leicester's Saffron Lane Velodrome in June 1974, Maurice Burton defeated an elite field to become Britain's first ever Black cycling champion. For his father, it was a moment of intense pride; Rennal arrived in 1948 from Jamaica and made his home in South London. As his 18-year-old son climbed onto the podium, boos rang out around the stadium.The crowd's response that day was typical of the racism and exclusion experienced by Burton. After being

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Book Synopsis''An electrifying account of gambling addiction ... compelling'' The Times''Mesmerising, superbly written story of despair, decline and redemption ... should be in the hands of anyone who has eyed a bet'' Daily Mail''An extraordinary story ... vital stuff'' Adrian Chiles''Gripping and harrowing ... enough to make any gambling enthusiast think carefully'' The Spectator''I don''t think any book has gripped me like Might Bite'' Chris Evans The unputdownable story of a life shattered by a secret gambling addiction and an uplifting tale of recovery with a foreword by Marcus Trescothick.For more than 12 years, Patrick Foster lived a double life. Turning 31, a popular and sociable young teacher and former professional cricketer, he had a lovely girlfriend and a supportive family. But he was hiding a secret and debilitating gambling addicTrade ReviewPowerful ... electrifying ... compelling … challenges deep-seated class assumptions about gambling ... [which is] still regarded as a problem for poor people, for losers. You only have to read Foster’s unflinching account of entitlement, self-hatred and degradation to know that is the biggest lie of all. -- Melanie Reid * The Times *[A] mesmerising, superbly written story of despair, decline and redemption ... Searingly honest ... compelling ... should be in the hands of anyone who has eyed a bet * Daily Mail *I don't think any book has gripped me like Might Bite. * Chris Evans *Gripping and harrowing ... enough to make any gambling enthusiast think carefully. * The Spectator *Reading of Foster's descent is itself compulsive * The i *An extraordinary story … vital stuff * Adrian Chiles, BBC Radio 5 Live *An in-depth testimony ... show[s] how anybody can fall prey to gambling addiction. * Daily Telegraph *A powerful story that I know only too well – a no-holds barred journey through gambling addiction and into the hope of recovery. * Paul Merson *A well-written, ruthlessly honest account of gambling addiction * Jimmy McGovern *As a society, we are only just getting to grips with gambling addiction. Patrick Foster is a trailblazer. His work will help many. * Marcus Trescothick *A shocking insight into life with gambling addiction and proof that these issues really don't discriminate. * Tom Curry, England rugby player *Foster’s compelling account of a once charmed life careering on a downward spiral proves [gambling addiction] can affect anyone. * Bristol Post *A must read journey through gambling addiction and out the other side – ultimately uplifting. * Charlotte Edwards CBE, ex-professional cricketer and England captain *This story will stop you in your tracks. * Sam Billings, England cricketer *Might Bite is beautifully written * Charlie Baker, TalkSport *A powerful read and a hell of a story * Paul Hawksbee, TalkSport *A remarkable piece of work * The Cricketer *You should all read Might Bite...a brutally candid, must-read memoir co-written with Will Macpherson, the Evening Standard cricket correspondent that ought to transcend the world of elite sport. * The Cricketer *A brilliant memoir which exposes the scale of this addiction * Caroline Sanderson, The Bookseller *Astonishing…Might Bite is a harrowing tale of the final moments of a gambler’s descent to near destruction, but it’s a tale that demands to be told. * Racing Post *A must – electrifying confessions of a high-achieving public schoolboy who destroyed himself with a secret betting addiction * Melanie Reid, The Times *Table of ContentsForeword by Marcus Trescothick March 2018 October 2006 June 2007 January 2010 August 2011 July 2012 October 2014 January 2016 December 2016 March 2017 August 2017 January 2018 March 2018 At the time of writing Reflections from recovery References Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisAutobiography of champion jockey and much-loved sports personality Ruby Walsh.A much-loved sports personality throughout Ireland and Great Britain, Ruby has had a career of outstanding success, which includes having won all four of the home Grand Nationals. This new edition brings his story right up-to-date to include all of the races over the busy Christmas period as well as last year''s astonishing triumph against the odds. With many doubting that he could be race-fit following a broken leg in November 2010, Ruby competed at Cheltenham Festival in March 2011 and won five races, finishing as the leading jockey.Ruby also talks openly about the three key working relationships in his life - with Paul Nicholls, Willie Mullins and his father, the legendary Ted Walsh - as well as laying bare the relationship that exists between him and jockey Tony McCoy - both great friends and professional rivals. With his intimate knowledge of the two greatest horses of our time,

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Book SynopsisThe autobiography of West Indies fast-bowling legend turned Sky pundit, Michael Holding, author of the award-winning Why We Kneel, How We RiseAs one of the fastest bowlers the world has seen, Michael Holding went by the haunting nickname ''Whispering Death'', claiming 249 Test wickets. Despite having not laced his bowling boots since 1989, it remains a fitting sobriquet. As a commentator and administrator, Holding has delivered his views on cricket in the same manner that he played the game: he speaks softly with a rich Jamaican rhythm and is calculated in either criticism or compliment. NO HOLDING BACK charts his effortless transition from one of the great players to one of the great pundits. Holding graphically describes his days as a player, looking back at how he tried to deliberately hurt batsmen on the wastelands of Kingston, and his first match for Jamaica when he almost collapsed from exhaustion - after only four overs! There is time, too, to divulge w

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