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Amazing Racers: A Good Read but not a must read

My Score 7 /10 (starts really slow)

Key points: Cross Country, Training, Coaching

Marc Bloom's "Amazing Racers" isn't just a sports book; it's a human triumph story set against the backdrop of the running world. It delves into the incredible journey of the Fayetteville-Manlius cross-country team, led by the eccentric and unorthodox coach Bill Aris, and their rise to dominance on the national stage.

Highlights:

  • The Team and the Coach: The book's central strength lies in its compelling characters. Aris, with his unconventional training methods and Zen-like philosophy, is a fascinating figure. The young athletes, their dedication and struggles, become relatable and inspiring.
  • Beyond Cross-Country: Bloom tackles more than just running. He explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of community. The book delves into the impact Aris has on his athletes' lives beyond the track.
  • Grit and Glory: The narrative chronicles not just victories but also setbacks and challenges. The team's journey isn't a fairy-tale; it's a testament to their unwavering commitment and Aris's unorthodox but effective coaching.
  • It covers the hard topics. There is talk of injury, eating disorders and more. 
  • Intriguing Insights: Bloom provides fascinating glimpses into the science and psychology of running. He challenges conventional training norms and sheds light on Aris's unconventional methods.

Possible Concerns:

  • Focus on the boys' team: I read this in other reviews and honestly not sure I agree with it. The book covers both the girls' and boys' teams, though the narrative leans heavily towards the boys, particularly in the first half this was because it was the boys reaching the national stage.
  • Potential controversy: Aris's coaching methods, while successful, might be seen as unorthodox or even risky by some readers. The book addresses these concerns but doesn't always delve deep enough. FYI as it is told he recommends a lot of hard running. 
  • Pacing: Some sections of the book, particularly the early parts, feel slightly slow-paced, potentially losing readers who expect a more action-packed sports narrative.

Overall:

Once it gets going "Amazing Racers" is a captivating, albeit long, read that transcends the limitations of a sports book. It's a story about human potential, the power of unconventional thinking, and the transformative impact of a dedicated coach. It's a must-read for anyone who admires athletic excellence, enjoys captivating characters, and seeks inspiration from stories of overcoming adversity. While some pacing choices and the limited focus on the girls' team could be improved, the book's strengths far outweigh its shortcomings.

Recommendation: Highly recommended for runners, coaches, and anyone seeking a motivational and human-interest story. Just be prepared for an unconventional journey that goes beyond the typical sports narrative.

My key takeaways:

  • To look into Percy Cerutty
  • Some motivational points
  • Maybe do more hill training


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