Product Description

An invigorating portrait of the racers on the U.S. Downhill Ski Team follows their lives on the road as they move from resort to resort pursuing their passion for speed. 20,000 first printing.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1690277 in Books
• Published on: 1993-12-06
• Released on: 1993-12-06
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 301 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Miami Herald staff writer Wilson ( Maximum Morphonius ), an avid skier, followed the U.S. downhill ski team for almost two years, leading up to the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. Carefully distinguishing between downhill and slalom races (the former is far more dangerous and so more exciting), he describes the conflict between the team's near fanatical commitment to the sport and its unremarkable position in international competition. For example, in the Olympics A. J. Kitt, the top U.S. downhill racer, finished ninth. As the coaches point out, the American media and public care only about victories. Wilson's account is likely to appeal to those interested in skiing at its highest levels, but general readers may be less enthusiastic. Author tour.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal
Wilson, a reporter for the Miami Herald , traveled with the U.S. Ski Team for two years on the World Cup tour, culminating in the 1992 winter Olympics. His behind-the-scenes account juxtaposes the "fraternity house atmosphere" of team hotels with the harsh potential for injury and death inherent in ski racing. Readers will feel the exhilaration and danger of the race courses, and admire the courage and determination of these young skiers who are collectively known as the "crazy-ass downhill maniac team." Wilson's book is a sympathetic and graphic account based on personal interviews and a close association with the athletes and coaches. He provides insight into the motivation and extreme pressure downhillers face in competition. Recommended for the sports collections of large public libraries.
- Sandra Math, St. John's Univ. Lib., New York
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Customer Reviews

Right over the edge of boring details
The book wasn't offensive, it just wasn't interesting. Constant unnecessary discussions of weather (among other boring topics) make this an obvious effort to pad the text as much as possible. What could have been a "right-on-the-edge-of-crazy" story becomes one of the most unreadable diatribes I've encountered.

Right On!
Right on the Edge of Crazy is a good insight to life on the road for ski racers. Yes, it talks about snow conditions (see previous negative comments) however, this information is essential to fully understand the environment in which these guys were racing. Any skier knows that weather alters conditions and therein alter one's approach to skiing. The book was entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to reading one about the current team.

This Book Is A Must Read For Any Downhill Enthusiast!
This book lets you see and feel what it is like to be on the USST. It also follows them through an Olympic season. This book reads fast and exciting.