Book 4 - Blog1 - Close to Flying

Book Details:
Close to Flying
Pages: 304
Pages read: 70
Words on page 50: 312 (26 x 12)
Words in book: 94,848 (averaged)
ISBN 9781740666671
Author: Cadel Evans (and Rob Arnold)
Published: 2010 by Hardy Grant Books

Price: $39.99 (sheeshe - is Borders publicly listed - maybe some shares might be in order - the words wounded bull come to mind)

Well, after two average books, it is great to finally find a book that is hard to put down. What a story, Cadel is the man, and Rob Arnold (Journalist and co-author) has done an outstanding job.

So far, the book has touched on Cadel's early years, where he was bought up in the NT. He was bought up by his mum, predominantly, although his father has always been in his life, and understandably, they are very proud parents. Actually, in some ways, to this point in the book anyway, Cadel's story is somewhat akin to Lance Armstrong's. Lance was raised by a single mum, was given a lot of freedom as a kid, and was unconditionally supported by his loving mother to achieve all that he was capable of. By the way, that is another great read, Lance's first book. Looks like Cadel and Lance are competing in France and on the book shelves. Go boys.

Lance was raised, for his early years at least, in Australia's Northern Territory. His mum tells some horrible stories about living up there, about the alcohol, the aboriginals, the lack of services and the general challenges of living in an outback location some 25 years ago. I can relate to a degree, as we lived about 2 to 3 hours drive from where Lance spent his early years. He was near Katherine, we were living in Jabiru (not at the same time - about 20 years apart). But, the life style can be understood once you have seen the area. Just watch Crocodile Dundee, some of that movie was filmed in the area. A bit of trivia for you ...

Unfortunately, I have just got to the point where Cadel has been kicked in the head by a horse (at age 8). Cadel has a fractured skull, is in hospital in a coma, has been operated on and is not assured of making a full recovery. It is obvious that he will (given what he had done since), though I am sure tit will be a hard road. Looking forward to reading about it.

This book is really well written, with an obviously large amount of time and research being dedicated to the project. You know what, it is the first book that I have paid full price for - as part of this blog project at least - and holy crap, did I pay for it, though it is great quality. That might be giving me a message. You get what you pay for, I suppose.

Anyway, I look forward to the rest of the book. Cadel has only had one bike so far, and after a short time, he tried (until dad intervened) unsuccessfully to get the trainer wheels off the bike. Dad assisted, and apparently he has been riding fast since. Cadel was actually a mountain biking world champ, prior to switching to road racing. An accomplished athlete, and someone committed to his profession, obviously. He missed out on winning several Tour De Frances, with second places in both, and I would say that is an unfulfilled dream for him. Good luck with that - big job.

Feelings

Cadel is an inspirational guy - as a general fan and a committed cyclist, it is great to read his story.

I love the story of Cadel's committed mother. They say that behind every good man is a good woman, well what about behind every athlete is a supportive mum. Good on her, and I am sure she would do it all over again.

Not a great deal more to report, as yet.

Until next time, keep reading.

Jimmy A