The Dirtiest Race in History: Ben Johnson, Carl Lewis and the 1988 Olympic 100m Final (Wisden Sports Writing)
$14.95
Description
Book Synopsis: The 1988 Seoul Olympics played host to what has been described by some as the dirtiest race of all time, by others as the greatest. The final of the men's 100 metres at those Olympics is certainly the most infamous in the history of athletics, and more indelibly etched into the consciousness of the sport, the Olympics, and a global audience of millions, than any other athletics event before or since. Ben Johnson's world-record time of 9.79 seconds – as thrilling as it was – was the beginning rather than the end of the story. Following the race, Johnson tested positive, news that generated as many – if not more – shockwaves as his fastest ever run. He was stripped of the title, Lewis was awarded the gold medal, Linford Christie the silver and Calvin Smith the bronze. More than two decades on, the story still hadn't ended. In 1999 Lewis was named Sportsman of the Century by the IOC, and Olympian of the Century by Sports Illustrated. Yet his reputation was damaged by revelations that he too used performance-enhancing drugs, and tested positive prior to the Seoul Olympics. Christie also tested positive in Seoul but his explanation, that the banned substance had been in ginseng tea, was accepted. Smith, now a lecturer in English literature at a Florida university, was the only athlete in the top five whose reputation remains unblemished – the others all tested positive at some stage in their careers. Containing remarkable new revelations, this book uses witness interviews - with Johnson, Lewis and Smith among others - to reconstruct the build-up to the race, the race itself, and the fallout when news of Johnson's positive test broke and he was forced into hiding. It also examines the rivalry of the two favourites going into it, and puts the race in a historical context, examining its continuing relevance on the sport today, where every new record elicits scepticism.
Details
Step into the world of thrilling sports drama with "The Dirtiest Race in History" - a captivating account of the infamous 1988 Olympic 100m final between Ben Johnson and Carl Lewis. Experience the pulse-pounding adrenaline of the race that shook the world, leaving a lasting legacy on athletics history like no other event before or since. Dive into the gripping narrative that reveals the shocking twists and turns behind the headlines, exposing the raw truth that will captivate any sports enthusiast.
Delve deep into the highs and lows of Olympic glory with this gripping tale of triumph and downfall. Witness the rise and fall of legendary athletes, and uncover the scandalous revelations that rocked the foundations of the sports world. From the electrifying showdown on the track to the aftermath that reverberated across continents, this book offers a front-row seat to the most controversial race in Olympic history, a story that continues to intrigue and captivate audiences worldwide.
Uncover the untold secrets and behind-the-scenes drama of the 1988 Seoul Olympics with "The Dirtiest Race in History." Packed with exclusive insights and never-before-heard accounts from key players, this book takes you on a journey through time, reliving the spectacle that defined an era. Explore the legacy of Ben Johnson, Carl Lewis, and the other athletes caught in the grip of scandal, and discover the lasting impact of this historic race on the world of athletics today.
Experience the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat in this gripping sports narrative that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss out on this riveting tale of competition, controversy, and redemption. Immerse yourself in the world of competitive athletics like never before with "The Dirtiest Race in History" - a must-read for anyone passionate about sports and the human spirit.
Grab your copy of "The Dirtiest Race in History" now and embark on a journey through one of the most iconic moments in Olympic history. Witness the epic clash of titans, the explosive revelations, and the enduring legacy of a race that transcended mere competition. Don't miss your chance to relive the excitement and drama of the 1988 Olympic 100m final - order your copy today!
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