'The Death of Marco Pantani' by Matt Rendell
Title: The Death of Marco Pantani
Author: Matt Rendell
Pages: 308
Genre: Non-Fiction, sports biography
Country: England
Year: 2006
My Synopsis: A biography of the Italian cyclist Mario Pantani.
Blurb from the back: On Valentine's Day 2004 Marco Pantani was found dead in a cheap hotel. It defied belief: Pantani was regarded as teh only cyclist capable of challenging Lance Armstrong's dominance. Only later did it emerge that Pantani had been addicted to cocaine since 1999. Pantani was a spectacular athlete. In 1998 he won both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, something few cyclists even attempt. this fascinating biography is the first in-depth investigation into teh facts behind the iconic figure and a thrilling insight into a roller-coast of a career. It draws on Rendell's personal encounters with Pantani, exclusive access to his psychoanalysts and interview with his friends and family.
Rating: 4/5
Review: A fantastic exploration of the this amazing cyclist, the allegations of doping, the court battles and his last few days in the hotel room where he was eventually found dead. Rendell has a unique insight to the case, from his interviews and knowledge of this sport and his writing is thrilling, especially as he describes Pantani's various victories. He draws some interesting conclusions concerning whether or not Pantani had a mental illness (I believe as someone suggested that he was bipolar), and asks questions about his ultimate downfall. Highly recommended if you are into cycling or even just want an excellent sports biography.
Next: 'The Greatest Gift' by Danny Leigh (he's a friend of my co-worker :D)
(cross posted in book_worm and bookshare)