Will McGough Books

Just as George Plimpton had his proverbial cup of coffee in the NFL as the un-recruited and certainly unwanted fourth-string quarterback for the Detroit Lions, so, too, did Will McGough immerse himself in a sport he had no business trying. Like Plimpton, whose football folly turned into the bestselling Paper Lion, travel and outdoor writer McGough writes of his participation in, around, and over the course of one of the world's premier triathlons, the annual 140.6-mile Ironman in Tempe, Arizona. McGough chronicles the Ironman's history, his unorthodox training, the pageantry of the race weekend, and his attempt to finish the epic event. The narrative follows not just his race but also explores the cult and habits of the triathlete community, beginning with the first Ironman competition in Hawaii in 1978. This is a light-hearted, self-deprecating, and at times hilarious look at one man's attempt to conquer the ultimate endurance sport, with a conclusion that will surprise and delight both dedicated triathletes as well as strangers to the sport.

Focusing on the journey of an unlikely athlete, the narrative chronicles Will McGough's experience at the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Tempe, Arizona. Drawing parallels to George Plimpton's adventures, McGough shares his unconventional training and the vibrant atmosphere of race weekend. The book delves into the history of triathlons, starting from the inaugural event in Hawaii in 1978, while offering a humorous and self-deprecating perspective on the challenges of endurance sports. The conclusion promises to surprise both seasoned triathletes and newcomers alike.