I'm Here to Win

September 1, 2011

Chris "Macca" McCormack's autobiography covers his racing history and quest to win the elusive Ironman Triathlon World Championship. Though the time line is scattered, listeners hear of the Australian's quick early successes, maturation on the world circuit, and adaptation to long-distance triathlon. A consummate racer with a bulldog focus on defeating opponents ("My job description is simple: win race"), Macca openly craves winning to the point of detailing the alpha-dog psychological tactics he uses to beat opponents. Whether it shows candor or betrays arrogance, this audio provides listeners with a glimpse inside the mind of an unusually combative athlete. Inconsistencies (the early emphasis on achievements and results is replaced with the cliched "performing your best, not winning, is the goal") distract, but narrator Howard Brunner excellently conveys the immediacy of racing. Advisory content is decent, but listeners are better served with established primers (e.g., Joe Friel's Triathlete's Training Bible). Recommended for large public libraries, special collections, and fans.--Douglas C. Lord, Connecticut State Lib., Middletown

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