The Warrior’s Edge
This is the more affordable, black & white version that I wanted to offer with the assurance that a lack of money would not stand in the way of anyone who wants to attain this life empowering information. MASTER your MIND! MASTER your LIFE by getting "The WARRIOR'S EDGE"! This is the path to the MINDSET to ALWAYS be at an advantage over everyone in the room! "WARRIOR'S EDGE" book is over 400 pages of strategies, etiquette, & protocols that constructs and maintains the unstoppable, dominant, mindset that you probably have witnessed and admired in champion professional athletes, specialty trained military, elite bodyguards, 1%er business leaders & more of the top achievers in the world! It's not hard to see that all of these high achievers seem to have a similar, special "edge" that makes them better and yes you're right. They do. The WARRIOR'S EDGE is the KING over ALL "EDGES" because it's foundation and functioning philosophy was birthed and developed in COMBAT! "WARRIOR'S EDGE" is the apex mindset that instills a dominating, performance driven, ready to go combat side, along with a calm and controlled side, that is committed with respect to the ethics, values, laws and manners that stem directly from the legacy of ancient warrior heroes. I initially wrote "Warrior's Edge" as a lesson book restricted to my attending specialty training Mixed Martial Arts Combative Defense students, but now it is accessible to everyone, including YOU because I know that if you choose to follow these protocols to become a STRONGER person, you simultaneously will become a BETTER person. And I know this because The Warrior's Edge will open your eyes to everyone and everything around you! Including and "especially", YOU! This is the most powerful self-empowerment book ever written with no punches pulled. Get it before it is banned!
Mountain Biking
All across America, people are discovering the pleasures and benfits of mountain biking. Now, in this lively, practical guide, an acclaimed mountain biking authority shows you how to get the most from you fat-tire machine.
75 Years of Formula 1
For seventy-five years, Formula One has captivated the world with a spectacle of speed, danger, and relentless innovation. From the post-war grit of Juan Manuel Fangio to the data-driven brilliance of Max Verstappen, F1 has evolved into a global powerhouse-part sport, part theatre, part arms race. 75 Years of Formula 1 chronicles the complete history of the World Championship, tracing every pivotal moment, legendary rivalry, and technological breakthrough that reshaped how we race-and why we watch.Written in an electrifying narrative style, this definitive account brings together roaring engines, cultural revolutions, and political intrigue. It captures the drama of Lauda vs. Hunt, Senna vs. Prost, Hamilton vs. Verstappen, and the rise of Red Bull's hybrid-era dynasty. It dives into the Netflix-fuelled fandom of the 2020s, the sport's green transformation, and the high-stakes future of AI, active aero, and synthetic fuels.Whether you're a lifelong tifoso or a recent convert, this is Formula One as you've never read it before-alive with character, controversy, and the chase for that elusive perfect lap.
The Birth of X Games
From the empty pools of 1970s Southern California to the global stage of the Olympics, The Birth of X Games tells the wild, rebellious, and inspiring story of how a scrappy subculture transformed into a multi-billion-dollar phenomenon. This gripping narrative traces the rise of skateboarding, BMX, snowboarding, freestyle motocross, and more-highlighting the daredevils, visionaries, misfits, and media empires that helped redefine what sport could be.With behind-the-scenes tales of ESPN's original gamble, the legends of the Summer and Winter X Games, and the influence of music, fashion, video games, and viral media, this book captures the cultural revolution that brought action sports from the fringe into the global spotlight. It also explores the modern landscape: Gen Z creators, LGBTQ+ athletes, eco-conscious gear, AI coaching, and the ever-blurring line between real and virtual adrenaline.Combining deep reporting, sharp storytelling, and vivid detail, The Birth of X Games is the definitive chronicle of how thrill-seekers, punks, and prodigies changed the world-one trick at a time.
The Tennis Court Wall Calendar 2026
INCREDIBLE COURTS: Discover a different tennis court from around the world each month and celebrate the global power of tennis. EXPERT AUTHOR: Nick Pachelli is a competitive tennis player and journalist who covered tennis for the New York Times, Esquire, Conde Nast Traveler, and other major media publications. GREAT GIFT: Perfect for avid players and tennis fans. NOW PLASTIC-FREE!: Workman wall calendars are completely plastic-free! Now printed with an extended paper flap closed with a fully recyclable seal--no more shrink-wrap!
Dakar Heroes
They came not for money, nor fame, but for the brutal, beautiful chaos of the desert. Dakar Heroes is the definitive chronicle of the privateers-those fearless, self-funded competitors who have dared to take on the world's toughest race without the backing of factory teams. From midnight engine rebuilds in Mauritania to YouTube-funded dreams in Saudi Arabia, this is a gripping, deeply human portrait of what it means to suffer, survive, and sometimes even triumph across the shifting sands of the Dakar Rally.Blending raw anecdotes, legendary machines, and the voices of the men and women who lived it, this book takes you into the bivouac, across the dunes, and through the decades of Dakar's most compelling stories. It celebrates the Malle Moto warriors, garage-built buggies, broken bones, blistered hands, and the sheer audacity of believing that with enough duct tape and determination, you can race with the giants.Whether you're a motorsport fan, a dreamer drawn to the edge of adventure, or simply in search of an epic true story of grit and endurance, Dakar Heroes will leave you breathless, inspired, and covered in imaginary dust.
The Game Changer
'Sue's passion for sport in this country is unmatched' David Beckham'England means so much to Sue. She has made a massive difference over the years for the Lionesses and she has left the whole game in a much better place' Jill Scott Sue Campbell has been creating change all her life. Starting as a young PE teacher on Manchester's Moss side, she saw first-hand the transformative power of sport. Once hard-to-reach kids started taking initiative, developing discipline and realising their full potential - all they needed was the opportunity to flourish. It was here that sparked the beginning of her mission - to empower, inspire and motivate others through sport - and she hasn't looked back since. Now a true pioneer in sport and leadership, Sue has since been a part of some of the nation's most important sporting glories to date, from overseeing the iconic 2012 Olympics to becoming Director of Women's Football at the FA and helping the Lionesses raise the winning trophy at the Euros. She has been a revolutionary force for women's participation in sport, both behind the scenes and on the field - illustrating that there is no barrier that can't be overcome with a little persistence, resilience and determination. In The Game Changer, Sue shares the story of her extraordinary life and career for the very first time. She also offers profound lessons in leadership that go beyond the sporting realm. Learn the importance of discovering your purpose, how to build a winning team, why learning from those around you is key and how to be an active agent for change even in challenging environments. The result is a deeply inspiring, invigorating and engaging narrative that - much like the woman herself - will change the lives of many.
Indy 500 Immortals
Every May, the world turns its gaze to a 2.5-mile oval carved into the Indiana soil-an arena where legends are born, hearts are broken, and history is measured in thousandths of a second. Indy 500 Immortals takes readers on a high-octane journey through 25 of the most iconic, controversial, and transformative races ever run at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. From Ray Harroun's mirror-clad Marmon Wasp in 1911 to Josef Newgarden's fenceline celebration in 2023, this is a century-spanning story of machines, mayhem, and momentous triumphs.With a vibrant, narrative style that fuses cultural history, technical intrigue, and character-driven drama, each chapter dives deep into a single race that helped redefine the world's greatest motorsport event. You'll relive Danica Patrick's ground-shaking debut, the Mercedes-powered heist of 1994, and the eerie silence of the 2020 pandemic race-all rendered with the thrill of a final-lap duel and the intimacy of a pit-lane whisper.Perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike, Indy 500 Immortals is not just a book about racing. It's a celebration of the sound, speed, spectacle, and soul of America's most enduring sporting tradition.
Japanese Sword Drawing
This manual is a complete guide to this esoteric aspect of sword fighting. Written by a noted master; this volume describes the techniques and katas of Muso Shinden Ryu; one of Iaido's best-known schools. Muso Shinden Ryu was founded by the great master Hayashi Jinsuke Shigenobu in the 16th century. Since that time; a succession of masters have guided the progress of the school; often adding katas and modifying techniques as their experiences dictated. Illustrated with nearly 800 photographs; this book records many Iaido forms that thus far have only been orally transmitted. It documents the three styles of sword-drawing taught in the Muso Shinden Ryu system, Shoden (first tradition), Chuden (middle tradition) and Okuden (interior tradition); each of which is actually a complete art of sword-drawing in itself. In addition; the Sei Tei Kata (official forms) of the All-Japan Fencing Federation and the All-Japan Sword-Drawing Federation are described in detail.
The Art of Skateboarding
An illustrated, definitive guide to the art of skateboarding - from the streets of 1960s Los Angeles to today's Olympic skateparks. From the empty pools of 1960s Los Angeles to today's Olympic skateparks, skateboarding has fostered a vibrant street culture that is visually striking yet often misunderstood. In this definitive illustrated guide, trace the evolution of the skateboarding from the very first boards to a thriving industry defined by iconic brands and distinctive styles. Through never-before-seen photography, and exclusive access to designs from top artists, learn how skateboarding has become a living cultural movement, with dedicated events, exhibitions, and festivals, even attaining Olympic status. Told through engaging narrative and pivotal excerpts from magazines, music, video games and films, Skate showcases the fearless tricks, defining moments, heroes and technical achievements through decades of transformation.
Rocky Marciano
In an age when most champions fade, falter, or fall from grace, one name still stands without a blemish: Rocky Marciano. Rocky Marciano: The Undefeated Legend is the definitive narrative biography of the only heavyweight champion to retire undefeated, blending gripping storytelling with vivid historical context. From the factory-lined streets of Depression-era Brockton to the roars of Madison Square Garden and the silence of a cornfield in Iowa, this book traces the relentless rise of a blue-collar brawler who became a national symbol of heart, grit, and resilience.With cinematic flair and meticulous research, the book revisits every moment of Marciano's journey: his brutal training sessions, legendary knockouts, and the quiet burden of perfection. Interviews, archival headlines, expert analysis, and living-room anecdotes bring the Brockton Blockbuster back to life-not just as a fighter, but as an enduring American icon.Whether you're a lifelong boxing fan or a newcomer to the sweet science, this is more than a sports story. It's a portrait of determination, identity, and the unrelenting pursuit of greatness-inside the ring and beyond.
Beyond Daytona
Beyond Daytona takes readers on a high-octane journey through the roaring heart of stock car racing-not just in the American South where it was born, but around the world where it has evolved, adapted, and thrived in unexpected forms. From moonshine runners on red clay roads to V8 heroes tearing across Brazil's Interlagos, from Australia's wild Bathurst hilltop camps to sim-racers launching real-world careers, this book explores the untold global story of a sport that refuses to stand still.With vivid storytelling and deep cultural insight, acclaimed motorsport author [Author Name] unpacks seven decades of rivalries, innovation, folklore, and reinvention. Through crashes and comebacks, from local bullrings to international boardrooms, Beyond Daytona celebrates stock car racing's uncanny ability to remain gloriously, defiantly loud-while racing full-throttle into the future.This is not just a history of cars and championships. It's the story of people, passion, and the world's most resilient form of motorsport.
The Golden Era of Cycling
From the cobbled chaos of Paris-Roubaix to the high drama of Mont Ventoux, The Golden Era of Cycling: 1950-1970 captures the sport's most thrilling decades in vivid, story-driven detail. This is the era when Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali became legends, when Jacques Anquetil redefined pacing, and when Eddy Merckx announced the future with ruthless brilliance. But it wasn't just about winners-it was about culture, craft, and community. Inside, readers will meet the master frame builders of Vicenza, the radio voices who turned suffering into symphony, and the rebels who transformed racing bikes into tools of protest.With chapters rich in anecdotes, technical insight, and cultural resonance, this book is more than a history-it's a love letter to the bicycle and to the people who made it sing. Whether you're a devoted roadie, a casual commuter, or simply fascinated by postwar European history, The Golden Era of Cycling offers an unforgettable ride through time.
Racing Through Hell
Racing Through Hell: Dakar's Deadliest Years is the untold, unflinching chronicle of the world's most dangerous motorsport. From its humble and chaotic beginnings on the streets of Paris in 1978 to the high-speed, high-stakes stages carved into the Saudi desert today, the Dakar Rally has always flirted with the edge-of geography, of technology, of mortality. This gripping narrative dives deep into the race's most perilous chapters, blending vivid firsthand accounts, insider interviews, and harrowing case studies to chart the true human cost behind the myth.Veteran racers recall the bone-breaking crashes, the navigational blackouts, and the deaths that cast long shadows over the sand. Civilians caught in the rally's path, engineers, journalists, and even widows lend their voices to a story far bigger than any finish line. We meet the adventurers who bled for the glory, the medics who stitched them back together, and the visionaries who built-and sometimes broke-the race's soul.More than just a motorsport history, this is a book about risk, obsession, and the fragile boundary between control and chaos. At its heart, it asks: what drives people to race toward danger-and what are we willing to accept when they don't come back?
Training and Fighting Skills
In Benny 'The Jet' Urquidez's first book on professional karate; he instructs the student in the techniques that made him No. 1 in the kickboxing world-conditioning; speed; power; timing; endurance; distancing; strategy; and of course; his famous fighting techniques for devastating opponents
Lance Armstrong
He was the greatest comeback story in the history of sport-until he became its most infamous cautionary tale. Lance Armstrong: Triumph and Betrayal is a gripping, meticulously researched account of the rise, fall, and reckoning of a man who inspired millions, deceived a generation, and forced an entire sport to confront its darkest truths.This book traces Armstrong's journey from a BMX-riding Texas kid raised by a single mother to his transformation into a global icon-a cancer survivor who conquered the Tour de France seven times, only to see every title stripped away. Drawing from decades of coverage, testimony, and Armstrong's own words, the narrative explores the depths of the doping conspiracy, the destruction left in his wake, and the long road toward self-reckoning.With no speculation and no sensationalism, this is the definitive portrait of a legacy still debated: a story of extreme willpower, systemic failure, and the enduring question of whether greatness achieved through deception can ever be separated from the damage it leaves behind.
Combat Bazuazhang Nine Dragon System Volume 2
This book is the much anticipated volume 2 sequel. It covers warrior training and applications. In this volume, John Painter draws upon his 30+ years of training Law Enforcement officers in tactical combat using the same Baguazhang principles shown in this book. There are no choreographed complex forms, just practical martial principles based on the Chinese internal martial art of Nine Dragon Baguazhang. He shows basic tactics for developing internal power, speed, strength and vulnerable body points along with a series of examples for using Baguazhang principles in single and multiple encounters.
Fighting Karate
Gosoku Ryu is a complete martial arts style composed of special techniques and unique kata. Created by legendary Soke Takayuki Kubota; Gosoku Ryu; which means 'strong' and 'fast'; combines the blazing speed that comes from the softness of most Chinese styles with the massive power of Japanese techniques. Soke Kubota also added elements of aikido; judo and jiu-jitsu to create a near-invincible; easily learned martial art that delivers maximum protection on the street and judge-pleasing performances in tournaments. Tak Kubota; head of the International Karate Association; is one of the world's most-treasured martial arts masters and teachers. His Association is represented in 53 countries and his amazing techniques have been taught to more than 800 police departments; agencies and bureaus around the world; including the F.B.I. and the Tokyo and Los Angeles Police Departments. In this groundbreaking book; Soke Kubota shows you in step-by-step fashion why Gosoku Ryu has become the most-widely accepted style of karate in the world
Figure Skating
As a sport, an art, a fitness activity, nothing quite beats figure skating for excitement, grace, beauty, or fun. Now former U.S. Champion figure skater John Misha Petkevich shows how you can find your full potential as a figure skater no matter what your age or ability.
King of the Road
Ken Block was more than a rally driver - he was a revolutionary force who reshaped motorsport, marketing, and car culture for a new generation. King of the Road chronicles Block's remarkable journey from co-founding DC Shoes to becoming a global sensation with his breathtaking Gymkhana films. This narrative dives deep into his racing career, his creative collaborations, and the empire he built through Hoonigan Industries. It examines how Block blended action sports aesthetics with precision driving, turning viral videos into brand empires and inspiring millions worldwide.Through vivid storytelling and in-depth analysis, the book explores Block's pivotal partnerships with Monster Energy, Ford, Audi, and beyond, capturing how he transformed the relationship between sponsors, athletes, and fans. It also reflects on his groundbreaking transition into electric performance with Audi and the profound global tributes after his tragic passing in 2023. King of the Road is not just a biography-it's a celebration of a life lived wide open and sideways, a masterclass in creativity, and an essential chronicle of an icon who left permanent tyre marks across the world.
From Bonneville to Bugatti
Across shimmering salt flats, endless desert runways, and secret European test tracks, the race for 300 miles per hour has captured the imagination of engineers, daredevils, and dreamers for over a century. From Bonneville to Bugatti chronicles this thrilling journey from the dusty beginnings of land-speed racing to the futuristic hypercars of today.Through vivid narrative storytelling, this book profiles the iconic machines-from Malcolm Campbell's Bluebird to Craig Breedlove's Spirit of America, from the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ to Bloodhound's audacious quest for 1,000 mph. Meet the fearless drivers, brilliant engineers, corporate titans, and controversial figures who risked everything to redefine the possible.Blending engineering insights, cultural history, corporate intrigue, and motorsport drama, From Bonneville to Bugatti captures not just the evolution of speed, but the human obsession behind it. Whether you are a lifelong enthusiast or a newcomer drawn to the myth of speed, this is the definitive story of the machines-and the people-that dared to go faster than anyone before.
The Grand Loop
For over 120 years, the Tour de France has been more than a bike race - it has been a living epic of human endurance, national pride, heartbreak, and triumph. The Grand Loop brings this astonishing story to life in vivid, flowing narrative, from its scrappy beginnings as a publicity stunt to its current status as the world's most-watched annual sporting event.Follow the heroes, villains, and underdogs who built the Tour's legend: Maurice Garin, Octave Lapize, Fausto Coppi, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Greg LeMond, Miguel Indurain, Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard - and the many others whose victories and defeats have shaped cycling's greatest saga. Witness the rise of women's racing, the evolution of the machine from steel beasts to carbon rockets, and the cultural empire the Tour has become.Capturing every era's drama, scandal, and spirit, The Grand Loop is an irresistible journey through dust-choked mountain passes, sprinting finishes, audacious solo attacks, and moments of pure, unforgettable glory.Whether you are a lifelong fan or discovering the Tour for the first time, this book is a celebration of why, against all odds, the magic of the Tour de France endures.
Gambler
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * "This book is going to become the sports gambling bible...The formula's in the book." --Pat McAfee "The greatest and most controversial sports gambler ever" (ESPN) Billy Walters shares his "rollicking and edgy life story" (The Wall Street Journal)--revealing the secrets to his fiercely protected betting system and breaking his silence about Phil Mickelson. Nobody controls the odds like Billy Walters. Widely regarded as "the Michael Jordan of sports betting," Walters is a living legend in Las Vegas and among sports bettors worldwide. With an unmatched winning streak of thirty-six consecutive years, Walters has become fabulously wealthy by placing hundreds of millions of dollars a year in gross wagers, including one Super Bowl bet of $3.5 million alone. Competitors desperate to crack his betting techniques have tried hacking his phones, rifling through his trash, and bribing his employees. Now, after decades of avoiding the spotlight and fiercely protecting the keys to his success, Walters wants to pass along his wisdom to future generations of sports bettors. Gambler is more than a traditional autobiography. In addition to sharing his against-all-odds American Dream story, Walters reveals in fascinating detail the secrets of his proprietary betting system, which will serve as a master class for anyone who wants to improve their odds at betting on sports. Walters also breaks his silence about his long and complicated relationship with Hall of Fame professional golfer Phil Mickelson. On a typical weekend gameday packed with college and pro sports, Walters will bet $20 million. It's a small sum for someone with his resources today, but an unbelievable fortune for the child who was raised by his grandmother in extreme poverty in rural Kentucky. By the age of nine, Walters became a shark at hustling pool and pitching pennies. As a young adult, he set records as a used-car salesman, hustled golf, and dabbled in bookmaking. He eventually moved to Las Vegas, where he revolutionized sports betting strategy and became a member of the famed Computer Group, the first syndicate to apply algorithms and data analysis to sports gambling. He built a fortune while overcoming addictions and outmaneuvering organized crime figures made infamous by Martin Scorsese's film Casino. In Gambler, Walters shares everything he's learned about sports betting. First, he shows bettors how to mine the information we have at our fingertips to develop a sophisticated betting strategy and handicapping system of our own. He explains how even avid bettors often do not grasp all of the variables that go into making an informed wager--home field advantage, individual player values, injuries or illness, weather forecasts, each team's previous schedule, travel distance/ difficulty, stadium quirks, turf types, and more. Variable by variable, Walters breaks down the formulas, betting systems, and money-management principles that he's developed over decades of improving his craft. From a self-made man who repeatedly won it all, lost it all, and earned it all back again, Gambler is at once a gripping autobiography, a blistering tell-all, and an indispensable playbook for coming out on top.
The Horse is Never Wrong
Autism may have trouble speaking, but Asperger's won't shut up.Things aren't going well for fifteen-year-old Heather during her sophomore year of high school. Not only is she friendless, she has been recently diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) by the school psychologist. The only things Heather has to comfort her are her books and that's just not enough.After Heather begins to take riding lessons at a local stable, things begin to change. Riding horses forces Heather out of her comfort zone and teaches her about her hidden capabilities and strengths. Gradually, the label that she has been given seems less and less important. But can she continue to improve enough to become a really good rider, the kind of rider she wants to become who can communicate with her horse and teach it something meaningful? These are the types of questions people can't answer-she must ask the horse, because...THE HORSE IS NEVER WRONG.
Dick Randall, The Young Athlete
Step into the exhilarating world of "Dick Randall, the Young Athlete," a timeless classic that has been out of print for decades and is now beautifully restored by Alpha Editions. This captivating tale, penned by the legendary Ellery H. Clark, is more than just a story it's a cultural treasure and a collector's item, meticulously revived for today's and future generations. Follow the inspiring journey of Dick Randall, a young athlete whose determination and spirit ignite the pages with excitement and heart. As Dick navigates the challenges of competition and the trials of youth, readers are drawn into a world where perseverance and passion triumph over adversity. This edition is not just a reprint; it is a lovingly restored masterpiece that captures the essence of a bygone era while resonating with the dreams and aspirations of readers today. Whether you're a casual reader or a collector of classic literature, "Dick Randall, the Young Athlete" promises to engage, inspire, and remind us all of the enduring power of ambition and resilience. Don't miss the chance to own a piece of literary history that continues to inspire and captivate.
Three-Pointed Legacy
From Karl Benz's rattling three-wheeler to a four-motor electric G-Wagen that pirouettes on the spot, Three-Pointed Legacy tells the complete, unbroken story of the world's most enduring carmaker. Spanning 140 years and thirty meticulously researched chapters, the book blends engineering insight, boardroom drama and cultural vignettes to show how Mercedes-Benz shaped-and was shaped by-each technological era: the birth of motorsport, the rise of diesel, super-charged glamour, post-war safety crusades, hybrid hypercars and the software-defined future.Award-winning automotive historian [Author Name] draws on factory archives, track-side notebooks and exclusive interviews with designers, racers and CEOs. Readers ride shotgun on Bertha Benz's 1888 road test, feel the ground shake under a Blitzen Benz at Daytona, peek into AMG's one-man-one-engine hall, and glide 1 000 km on a single charge in the Vision EQXX. Sidebars unpack supercharger physics and Level-3 autonomy; appendices catalogue icons, racing triumphs and breakthrough patents.Whether you're a lifelong Mercedes devotee, a motorsport fan, or a student of industrial innovation, this definitive volume shows why the three-pointed star still points to the future.
Fit & Healthy for a Better Life
Fitness is not just about lifting lot of weights or running marathons-it's about creating a balance between the all components of fitness and a obtaining a sustainable lifestyle that empowers you to feel your best every day. In this book, split in 9 chapters: fitness, aerobics, flexibility, endurance, strength, hydration, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, recovery and conclusions you'll discover practical advice, effective workout routines s to help you achieve your personal goals. Fitness must be a journey, not a destination, and this book would like to guide you every step of the way-no matter where you are starting from. If you are motivated you can unlock your potential and take control of your health.According to World Health Organization "regular physical activity provides significant physical and mental health benefits". 'In adults, physical activity contributes to prevention of heart diseases, cancer and diabetes and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhances brain health, and can improve overall well-being. In children and adolescents, physical activity promotes bone health, encourages healthy growth and development of muscle.
Mountain Biking, Culture and Society
This book represents the first critical examination of the social, cultural, and political significance of mountain biking in contemporary societies.Starting from the premise that cultures of mountain biking are diverse, complex, and at times contradictory, this book offers practical and theoretical insights into a range of embodied, material, and socio-technical relationships. Featuring contributions from an interdisciplinary team of researchers, artists, and (Indigenous) community members with backgrounds in sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, community development, and coaching, chapters critically unpack the complex and contested nature of mountain biking identities, bodies, environments, and inequalities within specific settings. Via a range of international case studies from England, Scotland, America, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa, authors highlight how tensions and conflicts in the world of mountain biking initiate important conversations about climate change, colonialism, discrimination, and land-use.This is essential reading for academics and practitioners in sociology, cultural studies, sport-for-development, and human geography.
Three-Pointed Legacy
From Karl Benz's rattling three-wheeler to a four-motor electric G-Wagen that pirouettes on the spot, Three-Pointed Legacy tells the complete, unbroken story of the world's most enduring carmaker. Spanning 140 years and thirty meticulously researched chapters, the book blends engineering insight, boardroom drama and cultural vignettes to show how Mercedes-Benz shaped-and was shaped by-each technological era: the birth of motorsport, the rise of diesel, super-charged glamour, post-war safety crusades, hybrid hypercars and the software-defined future.Award-winning automotive historian [Author Name] draws on factory archives, track-side notebooks and exclusive interviews with designers, racers and CEOs. Readers ride shotgun on Bertha Benz's 1888 road test, feel the ground shake under a Blitzen Benz at Daytona, peek into AMG's one-man-one-engine hall, and glide 1 000 km on a single charge in the Vision EQXX. Sidebars unpack supercharger physics and Level-3 autonomy; appendices catalogue icons, racing triumphs and breakthrough patents.Whether you're a lifelong Mercedes devotee, a motorsport fan, or a student of industrial innovation, this definitive volume shows why the three-pointed star still points to the future.
Reflections on Play, Sport, and Culture
The psychological dependence of humanity on playing is huge. Its nature and functional utility are unclear. These linked yet contradictory issues have created the intrigue that has fed philosophical thought for more than two hundred years. During this period, philosophy transferred many of the subjects of its analysis to the aegis of the humanities that it spawned. Each of them pays close attention to human play and studies it with its own methods of theoretical and experimental research. Thus, what was once a general philosophical comprehension of human play has branched out into different directions, definitions, and theories. This new book represents a renewed general view of human play. The unique quality of the volume lies in its fairly rare interdisciplinary methodology, encompassing a broad spectrum of the humanities: philosophy, anthropology, sociology, and the history of play, and behavioral analysis of playing, which have been done by the author. As a result, the volume ends with the proposition of a new general approach to human play that is named by the author "play field theory". Such an approach makes reflections on play, sport, and culture a source for all scholars studying play, by widening their knowledge through both a new general view and their familiarization with notions from neighboring fields and disciplines.
The Most Honest Sport
Thomas Hauser is among the most decorated boxing writers ever. He burst upon the fistic scene four decades ago with publication of The Black Lights: Inside the World of Professional Boxing and followed that triumph with Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times-the definitive biography of the man who was once the most famous person on earth. Hauser is the only person to be honored by the Boxing Writers Association of American with both the Nat Fleischer Award for Career Excellence in Boxing Journalism and the A.J. Liebling Award for Outstanding Boxing Writing. On ten occasions, articles he has written have been designated by the BWAA as the "best investigative journalism of the year."The Most Honest Sport continues Hauser's tradition of excellence and includes all of his articles about boxing from 2023 and 2024. As always, Hauser chronicles the big fights and gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at the sport's biggest stars. He shines a penetrating light on the murky world of illegal performance enhancing drugs and explores how the Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority has become the most powerful force in boxing today-and perhaps ever.
Enduro Evolution
Enduro Evolution is the definitive chronicle of the world's toughest two-wheeled sport. From the muddy roots of the International Six Days Trial to the unforgiving climbs of Erzberg, Romaniacs, and the Roof of Africa, this book tells the story of how enduro racing evolved-technically, culturally, and physically. Through gripping narrative, detailed rider profiles, and behind-the-scenes insights, readers will discover the bikes, events, training regimes, and global communities that have shaped modern hard enduro.Blending history with hardcore terrain, Enduro Evolution explores the transformation of motorcycles from basic thumpers to high-tech, GPS-guided machines. It dives into the rise of electric bikes, the psychological toll of extreme terrain, the camaraderie of privateer pits, and the emergence of women as key figures in the backcountry. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a curious fan, this is your front-row pass to the endurance, innovation, and spirit that define the sport.
Fight Forever
In Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, today's fans have one of the most coherent and long-term collaborations that has ever existed in wrestling history. Over the course of their twenty-year career we can document the number of matches they've been in together at over 300-and Kevin estimates it's at least double that, thanks to the sheer number of matches with tiny promotions that were never recorded. J.J. McGee, a professor at Aichi Shukutoku University in Japan with a doctorate in rhetoric, has primed her brain to look for symbolism, recurring themes and subtle character work. Known to wrestling fans as "Mith Gifs", she has a gift for finding the little things that make a story special. Fans know they can count on her to stitch together the pieces of an elaborate tapestry, revealing the complete picture of what's really going on. In Fight Forever: The Ballad of Kevin and Sami, she's exploring a partnership unlike any other-the saga of two men who fought their way from high school gyms to the grandest stage of them all at WrestleMania without ever losing touch with who they are.Each chapter of this history will focus in-depth on one match, the fictional story leading up to and away from it, and some of the real events connected to it. As we move from one match to the next, you'll hear about the triumphs and losses, the disasters and miracles, the heroes and villains-both in the fiction and in reality-and follow along as the two men at the center of the story grapple with the defining question of both the characters' and the real peoples' lives: "Can we succeed together, or are we stronger apart?"
When We Were Champions
The story of golf for people of color in Southern Africa is one of resilience and triumph against the backdrop of colonial and apartheid challenges. Golf first emerged in the Cape Colonies in the late 1800s, where caddies-black or colored individuals-were employed to assist players on the courses.In 1927, the Indian Golf Club was established in Durban, marking a significant step toward inclusivity in the sport. Just two years later, Bambata Boodhun made history by participating in the British Open. During this period bush golf clubs emerged, providing a platform for aspiring golfers.One of the most remarkable figures in this journey was Papwa Sewgolum, a caddy known for his unconventional reverse grip. Sewgolum's talent shone brightly when he triumphed in the Dutch Open three times in four attempts. His victory in the Natal Open, although marred by conditions imposed by the authorities, was a significant milestone. Receiving his trophy outdoors in the rain incited outrage in India, leading to South Africa's ban from the 1964 Olympics. Sewgolum emerged as a pivotal figure in the anti-apartheid sports movement, finishing as the runner-up in the SA Open and defeating Gary Player to secure his second Natal Open title. However, his achievements led to the government banning him from white tournaments and revoking his passport.Then Vincent Tshabalala seized his opportunity, winning the French Open while pulling his cart. His victory inspired many and highlighted the ongoing struggle for equality in the sport. The narrative of golf for people of color in Southern Africa is filled with numerous stories of triumphs and detailed tournament results that reflect the perseverance of these athletes.In recent years, Lewis Chitegwas made headlines by defeating defending champion Tiger Woods and became the first black golfer to win the SA Amateur. The history of golf for people of color in Southern Africa is a rich tapestry woven with tales of overcoming prejudice and apartheid.
Who’s Who of African Golf
Africa has a rich golfing history, with numerous remarkable champions and administrators, both black and white, contributing to the sport's development across the continent. The continent boasts 25 men's and 4 women's major titles, led by iconic figures like Gary Player, Bobby Locke, Ernie Els, and Nick Price, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the global stage. While Southern Africa, particularly South Africa, has historically produced many of the continent's elite golfers, notable talents have also emerged from countries outside this region. Golfers from Egypt, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Morocco, Kenya, Tanganyika, and Mozambique have made significant contributions, often flying under the radar compared to their Southern African counterparts. The sport's development in these regions has been accompanied by the The emergence of new champions and world-renowned coaches signals a bright future for African golf.
Off-Road Warriors
Off-Road Warriors: The Culture of 4x4 and Rally Racing is a thrilling and richly detailed journey through the wild world of off-road machines, legendary events, and the passionate people who live for life beyond the pavement. From the muddy roots of wartime Jeeps and Land Rovers to modern electric overlanders and Dakar-winning rally machines, this book explores how 4x4 culture has evolved into a global phenomenon.Packed with high-octane storytelling and in-depth technical insights, each chapter dives into iconic vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, and Mitsubishi Pajero, while also celebrating the unsung heroes of the garage, female pioneers behind the wheel, and DIY trailblazers who've built their dreams one weld at a time. Whether it's rock crawling in California, battling dunes in Saudi Arabia, or surviving jungle rallies in Malaysia, Off-Road Warriors brings readers face-to-face with the mud, grit, and glory of a community driven by adventure.Complete with historical context, global perspectives, and a visual appendix of iconic 4x4s, this book is both a celebration and a roadmap of off-road culture past, present, and future.
