Customer Reviews

Running Through the Ages

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Running Through the Ages is the most absorbing historical account of running and runners I have read. Its scope is wider than anything previously attempted, ranging from prehistory to the end of the twentieth century, and taking in professional running for men and women as well as the more familiar amateur era that dominated the last century. It is supported by hundreds of rare illustrations, most of which will be new, even to historians of the sport. There is a six-page bibliography and a comprehensive index. Edward Sears is a runner himself, and he wrotes with insight and enthusiasm as well as the skill of a storyteller. His section on George Seward, "The American Wonder", is a revelation. There are superb assessments of athletes as varied as Deerfoot, Arthur Duffey, Paavo Nurmi, Helen Stephens, Jesse Owens, Wilma Rudolph, Bill Rodgers, Buddy Edelen and Haile Gerbrselassie, for this author has the deep knowledge of the sport to give credit to great and lesser names. All the great races are vividly described and the dramas of the Olympic arena expertly chronicled. This is a fine, inspiring and articulate book. I don't merely recommend it to anyone interested in the sport; I urge you to read it.

Breaks running down into 7 time periods from I. Running by Pre-and Early Humans (5,000,000-200,000 BC) all the way to VII The Modern Superstars (1950-2000). Covers the history of running spicing in some great biographies within the stories. Learn about the famous 20th century stars like Carl Lewis, Emil Zatopek and Haile Gebresilasie as well as obscure 19th century runners like George Seward, Harry Hutchens and Amy Howard.
Details how running began, the ancient Olympics, running naked, improvements in time keeping, all sorts of things that most runners never even think of. Running Through the Ages has great illustrations and excellent writing style. Ed Sears has really done his research. Whether you are a runner or simply a sports fan, I highly recommend this book. Not just track fans but all "serious" sports fans should pick up a copy of this great work!