Swimmers We have selected some terrific books on some wonderful swimmers. Whether it’s competing at the Olympics or the tales of a long distance swimmers there is a book for you.
These are our pick of some great stories that will inspire current Swimmers, Swimming Coaches, Master’s Swimmers and Triathletes.
Swimming Australia
Australians love swimming. They love to swim and they adore their swimming stars. Few countries have a similar passion for this aquatic endeavour. From bathing in colonial times to our recent achievements on the international stage, Swimming Australia: One Hundred Years tells the fascinating story of how organised swimming evolved in Australia.
Amazing Pace: The Story of Olympic Champion Michael Phelps from Sydney to Athens to Beijing
"Amazing Pace" provides the most revealing look at a young man who became a world-class athlete before he had the chance to grow up - by respected "Baltimore Sun" journalist Paul McMullen, who followed Phelps's rise from an obscure 14-year-old to the most scrutinized competitor at the world's biggest sporting event.
Mark Spitz:
The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion
Documenting his legendary performances at the 1972 Olympics--winning seven gold medals while breaking seven world records--this is the first biography to chronicle the amazing life story of renowned athlete Mark Spitz. Every aspect of his roller-coaster career is recorded, from an age-group prodigy and four-medal "flop" at the 1968 Olympics to an outstanding collegiate career at Indiana University and a gold-medal haul in 1972 followed by lucrative endorsements and an unsuccessful stint in entertainment.
When Silver is Gold:
The Brooke Hanson Story Written with respected sports writer Neil Cadigan, this is
Brooke’s story – and what a remarkable journey it has been! Honest, sometimes controversial and inspiring, Brooke Hanson provides an insider’s view into Olympic preparation –
and finding love!
Golden Girl:
How Natalie Coughlin Fought Back, Challenged Conventional Wisdom, and Became America's Olympic Champion
The story of Natalie Coughlin's remarkable battle back from injury and burnout to be-come America's Golden Girl--a two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner in swimming and the most decorated female athlete at the 2004 Olympics
Michael Phelps:
Beneath the Surface By Phelps, Michael, Cazeneuve, Brian (January 2005) Hardcover
Fast Lane to Victory:
The Story of Jenny Thompson By Greenberg, Doreen L., Greenberg, Michael, ... (April 2001) Despite hardships, including scoliosis and being teased about being so tall and strong, Jenny Thompson went on to win eight Olympic Gold medals as one of the fastest female swimmers in the world. This is her story.
Petria Thomas:
Swimming Against the Tide By Andy Shea, Petria Thomas (1 July 2005)
Paperback
Swimming to Antarctica:
Tales of a Long-Distance Swimmer Swimming to Antarctica: Tales of a Long-Distance Swimmer
By Cox, Lynne (March 2005) Paperback This sports memoir is the acclaimed life story of long-distance swimmer Lynne Cox, a woman whose drive and determination inspire everyone she touches.
Gold in the Water:
The True Story of Ordinary Men and Their Extraordinary Dream of Olympic Glory By Mullen, P. H. (February 2003) Paperback This startling book will permanently change how you view the Olympic athlete. It is a fascinating world of suspense and emotion where human desire for excellence rules over all, and where there are no second chances for glory. But above all, "Gold in the Water" is a triumph of the human spirit.
Ian Thorpe:
The Biography By Greg Hunter (30 November 2004)
Hardcover