Product Description

Fifty years ago, ten Britons crossed the Channel and made history. For the first time, a team of British cyclists took part in the Tour de France, the most gruelling event in all of sport. Only two of those riders completed that 1955 race; only one British newspaper bothered to send a correspondent. Today, the Tour has become part of the British sporting calendar. Men such as Tom Simpson, Robert Millar and Chris Boardman have written their names into the record books alongside the sport's acknowledged greats. In Roule Britannia, William Fotheringham, acclaimed biographer of Tom Simson, gives us the definitive account of British cycling's achievements in the Tour, through exclusive interviews with and profiles of all those who have completed the event. From Brian Robinson to David Millar, Roule Britannia celebrates a nation's half-century-long affair with the greatest race of all...

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #109932 in Books
• Published on: 2006-06-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 256 pages

Review
"* 'Ingenious... you emerge from the book feeling rather proud of all these misfits and outsiders. Fotheringham's fondness for them is infectious' - Marcus Berkmann, Telegraph * 'Highly readable' - Geoffrey Wheatcroft, Daily Mail * 'Fotheringham tells each story with passion and sensitivity without losing the narrative sweep' - Sunday Times * 'William Fotheringham's book is painstakingly researched and gives a fascinating insight into the workings of the Tour' - Paul Newman, Independent"

The Independent, July 4, 2005
'William Fothering's book is painstakingly researched and gives a fascinating insight into the workings of the Tour.'

From the Publisher
A must for all cycling fans - the authoritative, passionate, intriguing story of British involvement in the Tour de France by cycling's leading writer.

Customer Reviews

Roule Britannia
An Excellent history or british involvement in the Tour de France, from the tradgedy of Tom Simpson through the many triumphs of Barry Hoban to the "wee yin" winning a coveted major jersey.

A compelling read for any cycling fans

Misleading
Disappointed that it was about the Mens Tour de France, and nothing about the great women in the Women's Tour de France. Disappointed that it had a photograph of Tom Simpson dying. Otherwise fine. The book should be retitled as it is misleading.