This book is both a lesson in true grit and determination, but its goal is one that is attainable. Andy isn't a sporting superstar, he holds down a 9-5 job and all the pressures that go with it; he isn't blessed with speed and talent; there are no multi-million pound sponsorship deals; yet this remarkable "common man" is inspiring in a way that some of today's sporting superstars have forgotten how to be. You wouldn't recognize Andy in the street, yet his story provides valuable lessons to us all: "Never give up" and "Anything is possible." Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run follows Andy Holgate's epic journey from being an overweight librarian to an Ironman triathlete. Before he could even begin the rollercoaster ride which amassed more punctures than Andy cares to remember, this would-be Superman had first to buy a second-hand bike and take swimming lessons. Along the way, he ended up in hospital, dealt with family crises, encountered crocodiles and deadly amoebas, and persuaded his friends that doing an Ironman event is what normal people do on their stag weekend. This is the inspirational, amusing and moving story of how one normal bloke learnt how to fall off a bike and not injure himself, to run a marathon despite two dodgy knees, and most importantly how not to drown.
Industry Reviews
"A great book! Andrew Holgate claims he 'Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run', but he can certainly write. His book is filled with terrific lessons on living life to its fullest. I would argue that he can swim, can ride and can run very well indeed!" --Dean Karnazes, New York Times best-selling author and ultra-marathon legend; "What really comes to the fore in Andy's book is that no matter what level of triathlon you are involved in, the motivations, discipline, rewards and love of the sport are universal. Andy's book dispels many of the reservations that can initially prevent people from taking up any form of physical activity and shows us how sport can not only be a positive step towards physical well-being but also can be rewarding for the mind and soul." --Catriona Morrison, Multiple Ironman Champion; "I thoroughly enjoyed it. The ability of sport to change people's lives, like Andy's story, is not something I've considered. It was a real eye-opener. Trying to be as fit and as fast as you can all the time it is very easy to get wrapped up in your own little world so it was nice to be given a wider sense of the sport and be reminded of the real reason and power of sport; to inspire enjoyment in activity. Thanks for a great read." --Alistair Brownlee, ITU World Triathlon Champion; "Anyone new to tri, considering the leap to ironman or just after a mental boost should check out this autobiographical account of one overweight librarian's first forays into multisport. In an inspirational story Andy recounts how he was enticed to take part in Cockerham's annual triathlon, and bitten by the endurance bug. If you want to roll your eyes and chuckle conspiratorially at another newbie's mistakes and triumphs, tuck in." --220 Triathlon Magazine; "Best for Inspiration! If he can do it... Holgate's ironman journey is an uplifting insight into the power of taking on a challenge. He tells his story with an irreverent sense of humour and packs the book with useful information. If you're thinking of doing an ironman this book is just the thing to convince you that you are up for the challenge." --Triathletes World Magazine; "Loved reading Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run. He is able to make you laugh as he turns his depressing situation around to a wonderful, fulfilling life. This is not just a story for triathletes, it's a great book for anyone struggling with life and looking for some sunlight." --MissTriathlon.com; "A great read which shows that it's more about the taking part and enjoyment of any sport. Having little knowledge of ironman I became interested immediately when reading Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run! It shows the efforts from a 'grass roots level'. I enjoyed the journey of how Andy accomplished his goal and how he enjoyed himself in doing so, finding time for laughs; and as you will read, he never takes himself too seriously." --Huw Bennett, Ospreys & Wales; "This book shows the reality that triathlon is accessible to anyone. This story would make a great television show as well as being a great book." --The Simon Gowen Triathlon Show; "Andy Holgate's honest and real-life writings set this book above the rest. A heart-warming and inspiring story of one man's personal challenge - try reading this book without wanting to put on a wetsuit. I have Andy to blame for having to get up early and go out training on these cold winter mornings." --The Fitness Blogger; "Andy Holgate is the Bill Bryson of the Triathlon World. Quite simply, I LOVED this book." --TriCrowd.com; "A really fascinating story." --Talk Radio Europe; "An inspiration to us all." --Lancaster Guardian; "An inspirational story." --North West Evening Mail