Rough Ride (book)

Rough Ride: Behind the Wheel with a Pro Cyclist is a revealing autobiography by Paul Kimmage, a professional road bicycle racer turned sports journalist. Published in 1990, the book offers an insightful and often critical view of professional cycling, focusing on the widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs within the sport. Kimmage, an Irish cyclist who competed in professional races including the Tour de France, provides a firsthand account of his experiences in the peloton, the challenges he faced, and his disillusionment with the doping culture that pervaded cycling during his career.

Synopsis

Rough Ride details Kimmage's journey from an enthusiastic amateur cyclist in Ireland to his years as a professional in the 1980s. The book delves into the physical and psychological demands of professional cycling, the camaraderie and rivalries among cyclists, and the intense pressure to perform. However, at the heart of Kimmage's narrative is his struggle with the ethical dilemmas posed by doping. He describes how he was confronted with the choice of using performance-enhancing drugs to compete on equal footing with his peers or staying clean but at a competitive disadvantage. Kimmage's decision to remain drug-free and his subsequent alienation within the sport form a poignant theme throughout the book.

Impact and Reception

Upon its release, Rough Ride caused a stir within the cycling community and sports world at large. It was one of the first books to openly discuss the issue of doping in professional cycling, breaking a taboo that had long silenced discussions on the topic. Kimmage faced criticism and ostracism from many within the cycling establishment, but he also received support from fans and some fellow cyclists who admired his courage in speaking out. Over time, the book has been recognized for its contribution to raising awareness about doping in sports and has been praised for its honesty and insightful analysis.

Legacy

Rough Ride has had a lasting impact on the world of cycling and sports journalism. It is credited with helping to pave the way for greater scrutiny of doping practices in cycling and other sports. Kimmage went on to have a successful career as a sports journalist, continuing to cover issues related to doping and ethics in sports. The book remains a seminal work in sports literature and is often cited in discussions about doping and integrity in professional athletics.

See Also

• Doping in sport
• Cycling
• Tour de France
• Sports journalism

This sports book related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.