Mark Spitz

The Extraordinary Life of an Olympic Champion

By Foster, Richard N. & Spitz, Mark & Jackson, Keith

Publishers Summary:
Documenting his legendary performances at the 1972 Olympics—winning seven gold medals while breaking seven world records—this is the first biography to chronicle the amazing life story of renowned athlete Mark Spitz. Every aspect of his roller-coaster career is recorded, from an age-group prodigy and four-medal "flop" at the 1968 Olympics to an outstanding collegiate career at Indiana University and a gold-medal haul in 1972 followed by lucrative endorsements and an unsuccessful stint in entertainment. Personal stories are also included such as the role Spitz's father played in his career, stormy relationships with coaches and teammates, experiences as a Jewish athlete amidst anti-Semitism and the Munich massacre, and his impact on the commercialization of swimming. Career insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes about Spitz and his competitors shed light on his complicated personality and round out the details of this swimming icon's story for old and new fans alike.

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ISBN
978-1-59580-039-8
Publisher
Santa Monica Press


REVIEWS

Library Journal

Reviewed on August 15, 2008

It's been 36 years since Mark Spitz won a record seven gold medals in swimming during the tragic 1972 Munich Olympics, and he remains a giant figure in the history of both competitive swimming and the Olympics. The iconic photograph of Spitz wearing his swimsuit and all seven medals was the best-selling poster of a sports figure until the late 1970s. Foster, the current p...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

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