Mark Spitz: The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion

by Richard J. Foster and Richard J Foster

Book Overview

Mark Spitz is arguably the most famous and successful Olympic athlete of all time because of his legendary performances at the 1972 Olympics, where he won seven gold medals while breaking seven world records. His amazing life story is told for the first time in the authorized biography Mark Spitz: The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion.

This exclusive account follows Spitz's roller-coaster career: age-group prodigy, four-medal...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1595800395
• ISBN13: 9781595800398
• Release Date: July 2008
• Publisher: Santa Monica Press
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.29 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

A page-turning biography

I totally agree with the previous reviewers. As a middle-of-the-road recreational swimmer, I heard of Spitz for the first time only last month and never thought that this biography would keep me busy, not least because the genre itself isn't a great favourite of mine (I own just a handful of biographies). All I can say is that, despite Phelps' success in surpassing Spitz by winning 8 gold medals, I hardly think he can ever equal his predecessor's charismatic personality and (to quote the subtitle) 'extraordinary life'. Though it's a pity the photos are reproduced in b/w, I recommend this book without hesitation. You don't have to have an interest in swimming or sports in general to own it: if 'story' is what interests you, Spitz's story won't fail to move you.

Wow!

I'm not an athlete, but I really enjoyed reading this book. Mark Spitz' extraordinary career is great on its own, but the fabulous references to historical events of the time made this a very interesting read. I read it in three sittings and wished there was more.

Bravo

Fascinating read not just for swimmers but anyone who loves sports. Foster chronicles Spitz's life with verve and accuracy.

Mark Spitz: The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion

Great book on this Olympic icon. Very timely with the Olympics coming up. Don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy this book. Spitz was an amazing athlete and person and this book presents a lot of previously unkown stories about him.