Customer Reviews

The Belgian Hammer: Forging Young Americans into Professional Cyclists

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Racing in Belgium takes all young American rookies by surprise as it's faster, more dangerous, more difficult and the conditions more challenging than anything they've experienced in the States. However, the strong racers usually survive and eventually thrive in these intense Belgian competitions returning to America as professional cyclists.

Interesting, insightful and informative Daniel Lee's THE BELGIAN HAMMER: FORGING YOUNG AMERICANS INTO PROFESSIONAL CYCLISTS keeps you clicking through the cogs as the key races he describes reach critical mass and the young Americans display their raw talent: Displays like Ben King's dramatic breakaway win of the 115 mile US Pro Road Race Championship or Taylor Phinney's US Pro Time Trial Championship win in Greenville in September 2010.

This book describes contemporary American youths' racing experiences -- mostly young men based in Belgium, the groundzero of introductory European style racing -- and how these young guns master the skills needed to successfully ride their way into the future; a future in racing that unfortunately only rewards a very select few. It tells the story of the developmental programs and their primary importance in creating a reality where young American racers can focus on their racing leaving most of the logistics of living in Belgium to others, who just happen to double as coaches.

Reading THE BELGIAN HAMMER makes you want to yank your bike off the trainer and peel off down the road regardless of the fact that the roads are snow-covered and temperatures are in single digits. George Hincapie's Foreword adds a nice touch to a book that should inspire aspiring young American racers to forge ahead and achieve their dreams.

Those of us who follow pro cycling generally only see fully-developed riders at the height of their powers. This is a really interesting examination of what it takes for young riders to make the jump to the big leagues. Since cycling remains a fringe sport in the US, the Belgian Hammer details what it's like for these athletes who must first overcome the general secondary status of the sport in their own country, and then find a way through the barriers of language, culture, and logistics just to have a shot at letting their abilities shine forth on the largest stage. One can only speculate that this book would ring true to a young Spaniard who dreams of playing in the NBA.

Cycling's most popular stars have always won their loyalty through their charisma just as much as through their racing achievements. Dan Lee was fortunate enough to befriend riders who are not only powerful athletes, but compelling personalities. This book will inspire young riders to aim high and provide weekend warriors with vicarious connection to the achievements of tomorrow's champions.

I couldn't put The Belgian Hammer down. I was wrapped up in the descriptions and excitement that leaps from the pages. Some of the stories made me laugh and others showed me the importance of determination and true-grit. The passion and drive behind the individuals featured is inspiring. After reading this book I wish I had started my cycling career earlier to enjoy racing at the same level. Now I can only live vicariously through these young men. Chapeau. Ride on.

Daniel Lee's capture of the ambiance, or lack of it, in the rugged life of a racing cyclist in Belgium is remarkably accurate. It portrays the ordeal today with its trials and tribulations. With the exception of the modern equipment and facilities there is a remarkable parallel with the 1950s when I was a young Brit pro racing in Dendemonde, Belgium. The rough and tumble in the bunch, often caused by the roads, not the riders, is still there. I am not sure the emphasis of foul play attributed to the Belgian riders is any worse than in races and racers of other nations. Certainly I have experienced it as a young man in Britain, France Canada and the USA. There are always some... I read the book non-stop and mailed it to a former team-mate in Britain who had been the same route as me and Daniel Lee's subjects. He confirmed it was a trip down memory lane. In Belgium is where racing MEN are made.

An Amazon Reviewed Product

Daniel Lee's enthusiasm for the sport of professional cycling and the journey one takes to achieve his or her dreams makes the Belgian Hammer a must read for any junior (and their parents) along with anyone who is a fan of the competitive spirit. The factors that can influence that competitive spirit is closely examined by Daniel in a way that makes the Belgian Hammer a terrific read. The characters researched for this book are relevant for today's enjoyment of professional cycling and will certainly help shape the future of the sport in a positive manner. So take a look and enjoy!

The Belgian Hammer is a perfect book for the aspiring cyclists with dreams of reaching the top ranks as well as the average Joe wishing to learn more about the intricacies of the sport. Daniel Lee is an illustrative writer who provides a unique glimpse into the one of the most successful development programs of all time. You won't be disappointed.

If you want to know about American professional cyclists who will be capturing headlines for years to come, read Daniel Lee's book. Today, Belgium is the hub of professional cycling and a great proving ground. Lee's book provides a fresh insight to the challenges-thousands of miles from home-these young riders face.

Author is an outstanding writer and interviewer! It would appear that someone who is new to bicycling would enjoy reading the interviews with the subjects in this book.Well done!!

Daniel Lee has masterfully captured the thrill, grit, and passion of the sport in a way that inspires us aging cyclists and fuels the fire of those just getting started. The Belgian Hammer is full of funny and inspiring stories of talented kids and the programs and mentors who have and are still helping them find there way into the professional ranks. I love the way the book ends--with a victory no one, not even the author could have predicted. This would also make a great documentary!

Great read, covers some current and future stars of the sport, Lawson Craddock, while grinding it out in the rain and mud over there,,,,,,