Customer Reviews

Life at the Limit: Triumph and Tragedy in Formula One

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A fitting testament to Professor Watkins' work in Formula One -- in which he waged a long battle to improve circuit safety and medical care facilities for drivers -- this memoir is filled with both poignant and joyful moments. It starts with the weekend of the San Marino GP in May 1994, where Watkins was told by Ayrton Senna, "Sid, there are certain things over which we have no control. I cannot quit, I have to go on." Covering the deaths of Senna, Gilles Villeneuve, Ronnie Peterson and others by the man who was first on the scene of their accidents, one might expect this to be a maudlin tale of lost glory. But Sid Watkins is not that type of person, and neither is his book.

Professor Watkins provides his insights into the personalities and events of formula one racing based on over two decades involvement with the sport. He has completed more circuit laps in medical vehicles than some drivers are able to accomplish in their F1 career. His humor, dedication to the sport, and commitment to improving safety standards are reflected in this well written book that should appeal to everyone interested in the human aspect of the F1 circus.

Prof Watkins book is a story no racing fan will be able to put down as you get a first-hand account of Grand Prix racing's dangerous side. Dr. Watkins talks from the viewpoint as the first person to arrive at the scene of every on-track incident to occur, from Ronnie Peterson to Gilles Villeneuve, to Ayrton Senna. This is in no way a grim story, but rather one that adds an incredible human side to a sport which often lacks such an element. Much is also learned about the progress made in track safety and procedures over the last two decades of Mr. Watkins reign as Medical Director to F1. A must read!

Watkins was the chief medical officer for Formula 1 for many years and so has marvelous personal stories of people in the sport told from the insiders perspective. He also discusses details of how safety and medical response have improved over the years, often due to his personal intervention with the powers that be. A wonderful book for the F1 fan who wants to learn more about the sport. The only drawback is a somewhat hit or miss aspect of the writing style, the author understandably being reluctant to bring any skeletons out of closets.

My husband absolutely loves this book. He finished half of it the night he started reading it. Sid Watkins is easy to read and tells interesting stories. A must-read for Formula One enthusiasts.

The stories and recollections by Professor Watkins are priceless and are from a unique perspective. I found the way the book delevoped was a little unusual, but still interesting. The last section of the book (approximately 20 pages) are worthless details to even the above average motor sports fan. I would have likeed to see another story.
It would be an enjoyable book for a true F1 fan.

Viewing Grand Prix motor racing through the wonderfully perceptive eyes of Professor Watkins means that anyone interested in the sport should read this excellent account. Obviously respected, often revered by those with whom he works, he gives vivid and sometimes moving recollections spanning the many years of his involvement. Humour and pathos make regular appearances; his dry wit, an essential tool of his trade perhaps, serves to punctuate what is essentially a serious book. His incisive précis of drivers from the last three decades make for compulsive reading, the character analyses are intriguing and revealing. Undoubtedly a pivotal character in the world of Formula One, the professor has been instrumental in saving many lives. However, he's also witnessed intimately the consequences of appalling accidents in which lives were lost. He is perhaps uniquely qualified to commentate on the sport; his dedication and professionalism making him a hero in this modern amphitheatre which now embraces the globe. Superbly readable. Once is not enough.

I have never thought that this book could contain such historical moments. I have only followed F1 since 97 and I had a thirst for knowledge. This book has lots of it. Knowledge and feelings. We are brought inside the author's life. I thank him for this book, which I consider a remarkable achievement.

VultureElf 1/8 Irish Proud FOSA member

Professor Watkins has been present during the darkest days in F1 during the last 20 years. In his book he offers his insights into not only the events but also the racing personalities during this period. He also provides his perspective upon the events at Imola in 1994 and his relationship with Ayrton Senna. This book is a welcome additon to the library of anyone interested in F1 during this time period.

Professor Watkins has been present during the darkest days in F1 during the last 20 years. In his book he offers his insights into not only the events but also the racing personalities during this period. He also provides his perspective upon the events at Imola in 1994 and his relationship with Ayrton Senna. This book is a welcome additon to the library of anyone interested in F1 during this time period.