That Near Death Thing: Inside The Most Dangerous Race In The World

by Rick Broadbent

The Isle of Man TT—the world's most dangerous motorcycle race—as seen through the eyes of four leading racers

A life-affirming journey to the heart of the world's most dangerous race, this account gets inside the helmets of four leading motorcycle racers as they battle fear, fire, and family tragedy for a gritty sort of glory. Guy Martin is a tea-drinking truck mechanic and TV eccentric who "sucks the rabbits out of hedges," but must now deal with the flipside of fame; Conor Cummins is the local hero facing a race against time as he battles depression and a broken body after falling down the mountain; John McGuinness is the living legend fending off the ravages of middle-age for one last hurrah; and Michael Dunlop is the wild child living with one of the most remarkable legacies in sport. They tell their astonishing stories in a book that provides the most rounded, intimate, behind-the-scenes account yet of the last great race. Delivering the final word on the Isle of Man TT, this book really gets to grips with an event that continually pulls unsung riders and fans back year after year to witness That Near Death Thing.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports, Biography, British Literature, Motorcycling

288 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 2012

About the author

Rick Broadbent is a sports writer for the Times, for whom he covers MotoGP, among other things. He has previously witten books on football, boxing and athletics as well as, most recently, collaborating with motorcycle legend Ron Haslam on his autobiography Rocket Men, published by Bantam Press in July 2008.

Reviews

[Adrian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now I read this back in 2015 which seems a loooong time ago, but as part of my ongoing mission to boldly etc etc, or even to write a review for every book I have "read" whilst on GR, it is about time I got to this book.

Now its fair to say I have been a motorcycle (motor bike in the USA ?) lover ever since one of friends Dad's had one when I was around 14. As soon as I was 17 I bought one, passed my bike test and have been a rider ever since. (I still have a 1979 900cc Honda 4 in my garage, almost classic status now).
So if one enjoys bikes, then at some point you will be hooked by the heroes who have ridden, those who still ride and the sad few who have died on the Isle of Mann TT course.

This book covers 4 of those heroes, from the down to earth, tea drinking, never say die, hold it together with duct tape, working class hero that is Guy Martin to the amazing multi IoM TT winner that is John McGuinness. All 4 of the riders mentioned in this book have had truly horrendous accidents, but return to the TT like lemmings to a cliff. That said Guy Martin has now a number of successful TV series under his belt , is a very good, almost professional long distance off road cyclist and has finally turned his back on the adictiveness that is the IoM TT.

I admire these men that can lap around a road circuit at 130mph plus, only 3 inches from a garden wall, or a curb (kerb) or a hedge growing out of someones front garden; that can power from sunshine on one side of the Island over the mountains and down in to heavy rain the other side before returning to the start with little loss of speed despite the conditions being treacherous.

So if you are at all interested in a group of people who are brave (read mad) then this is a well written book that will be a good introduction to the legend that is The Isle of Mann TT

[Stacy Bearse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Broadbent's excellent book in preparation for a motorcycle tour of the Isle of Man. Journalism 101 teaches budding writers to look for the "who, what, when and why" of the story. There has been much written about the "who, what and when" of the Isle of Man motorcycle race. Broadbent delves into the "why". What compels motorcycle racers to attack the dangerous Mountain Course at speeds of 190 mph, mere inches from unforgiving trees, rock walls and bridge abutments? Why do they come back, year-after-year, after witnessing the death of their colleagues in terrible wrecks? Why do they continue to challenge physics in an environment where a single misjudgment could lead to utter disaster? Broadbent's observations enriched my travel experience beyond words.

[Tim Dyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a soft spot for both the Isle of Man and the TT and am always nervous about how both are portrayed in the mainstream. This book however did not disappoint. No one who has not been to a TT can have a clue about its allure. Those that have been to ten may have an idea. But it's only the courageous (crazy?) men and women who actually ride it that truly know its savage beauty. This book provides a fascinating glimpse into their mindset and helps those of us who would never even consider having the balls to ride it get a little closer to fully understanding the race. Required reading for both fans and critics alike.

[Duane · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read, I wouldn't say you need to be a motorcycle racing fan to get anything from it. Far from it, this book makes it clear why so many people put their lives on the line to race at the Isle of Mann

[Zane Grimshaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the background and story of 4 racers who annually race at the controversial and deadly Isle of Man TT, The racers which are focused on are John McGuinness, Guy Martin, Michael Dunlop and Conor Cummins, other racers are obviously mentioned especially as it covers the 2010 TT so people like Ian Hutchinson are mentioned but it doesn't go into nearly as much detail about his life as the 4 main riders mentioned. Also I feel it would be prudent to mention that this book basically ignores sidecars and hardly gives them a mention throughout

The riders that are focused on were chosen for specific reasons: John McGuinness is an ageing veteran with the most TT wins of any living person, Guy Martin is the unconventional maverick and people’s favourite even though he is yet to win a TT, Michael Dunlop is the son of Robert Dunlop and nephew of Joey Dunlop (the legend with the most TT wins ever, 26) so his name holds a lot of weight in road racing (he also won at the 2008 Northwest 200 2 days after his father died during practise), and finally Conor Cummins who is looking to be the first home grown winner since Milky Quayle won in 2002

The first part of the book, titled ‘Waiting’ has each chapter dedicated to a different rider with his first name (John, Guy, Michael or Conor) as the chapter title and starts of with a short biography of each rider and tries to delve into their psyche and why they race the TT and ending with the aftermath of the 2010 Senior TT in which 2 of the riders bikes broke down and the other 2 ended up in hospital, in between those for the first 5 or so chapters is a shorter chapter chronicling each race of the 2010 IoM TT. The second part ‘Living’ is about the build up and the races of the 2011 IoM TT

Having watched the 2010 TT at the time and also the documentary TT3D: Closer to the Edge, I knew what happened to Conor Cummins (5 broken vertebrae, a fractured pelvis, 4 breaks in his left arm, nerve damage to his hand and severe ligament damage to his knee) but this book goes deep into his recovery and everything he had to go through mentally and physically, and how despite everything his main goal was to ride in the next years TT and there is only 1 word for it…. Incredible

Another nice addition is before each chapter there is a paragraph which is what Milky Quayle says as he takes someone round the TT course for example this is about half of one:
Had a slide here once, nothing too much, back to sixth gear, thinking about coming to the top of Barregarrow, its a nightmare as it has two big entries, look for the little cottage here on the left, drift over. As soon as you pass the cottage, go straight to the right and kiss the kerb

[Rayb24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read, in some places you are not quite sure who is being written about, which to me means it has some missing edits, but all in all it gives you the flavour of the TT

[Lu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Broadbent has a real knack for capturing the magic of bike racing. He manages to make you wholeheartedly believe in the thing, without ever sugarcoating it. He also manages to do so without villainising it. The TT is just a fact: it exists. People do it. It will always exist in some form, no doubt. The more important question, or rather the debate, is the why. This book does a perfect job of firstly getting us familiar with the key present figures (& some legends and lesser hailed figures of the TT) and then more generally the basics of the TT weekend (but specifically grounding us in the emotions and thoughts of those prior explored riders). I think that works super well, the entire time we are exploring the why you’re also getting right up into the culture and the feeling of those that actually do it - which I think with something like the TT is suuuuper important. You have to be made to fully believe it to even begin to understand it.
I will also say that before I read this the TT definitely scared me a lot but that I think reading it didn’t necessarily make me less scared of it per se, but now that’s coupled by a deep admiration and buying into the magic of the thing I guess.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an insightful and enlightening look behind the scenes and inside the minds of the riders at the most dangerous and (mostly) death-defying race in the world. As a life long bike fan, I found this absolutely engrossing as Broadbent interviews each of the main riders of the 2010 and 2011 race weeks and delves into their histories showing the varied backgrounds and motivations that drive amatear, semi-professional and professional riders to risk their lives taking on the Mountain. Broadbent keeps things well balanced by voicing the concerns of family, friends, opponents and of the riders themselves as well as showing the thrill of riding public roads at speed (and then some). He's even sure to cover the sidecar riders and races, an often overlooked aspect of the TT but a major part of the paddock with its own stars, dramas and losses.

[Adam Vibert · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting insight into the minds of road racers and what goes on behind the scenes at the TT.

The book is largely focused on the build up, events, and aftermath of the 2011 TT, but it also touches on the 2010/12 TT and has some chapters explaning the backgrounds of the 4 main protagonists (Michael Dunlop, John McGuinness, Guy Martin and Conor Cummins). I can see why some people have commented that the structure makes it confusing, but I didn't find it too bad overall.

Would recommend if you want to know more about the TT and what makes these racers tick.

[Andy Turton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am no clearer to understanding the thrill of it. An invaluable insight to the nature of the beast, the track commentary was my favourite. When you boil it down, these are skillful riders pitting themselves against one of the most demanding circuits in the world. But with so much 'environment' outside their control, it beggars belief that they can chose to pit themselves against it. Vive le difference, I suppose. It really does take all sorts.....

[mr michael j woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why do something most people see as self destructive and reckless. Growing up everyone i knew either raced bikes or wanted to, those who faced the TT were a breed apart. But I never understood what motivates them until I read this. You race bikes because there is nothing else that competes and not racing is more akin to and living a normal life holds a greater feed than death

[Craig · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite interesting and informative look at the underbelly of road racing. The characters were all very interesting, though I really didn't find myself rooting for many of them, other than Connor Cummins and John McGuinness. These MFers are absolutely out of their minds. This book inadvertently convinced me that the Isle of Man TT should be shut down, though it's message is the opposite.

[Peter Hooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Must Read for any Motorbike Racing Fan

A really enthralling read bringing the unique character of so many of the Isle of Man racers to the forefront and giving some insight into what make each of them tick.The races are brought to life on the page and really make you want to sit back and watch them again.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating, great read!

Really good insight into this insane spectacle! Couldn't put it down! Made me want to go and find more information on the history of the TT, and the Isle of Man.

[Les Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting behind the scenes read. More meaningful for me as the book covers the period from 2010 to early 2012 and I attended the 2011 event. Rambles a bit in places but great incites from a number of the top riders at that time.

[Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the smell of high-octane racing fuel, hot motor oil, unimaginably high speeds, and consequent personal risk excites you, then this book is for you. The most dangerous racing event in the world (an average of two people per year have died since its founding in 1907), the Isle of Man TT and many of its wonderful characters are brought to life (and death) in ways that could only be exceeded by actually attending one of the races. Reading the book and watching several of the YouTube videos available also adds to the enjoyment.

This is a gripping book.

[Andrei Stefoane · Rating 4 out of 5]

An insight into this unique TT race seen through the eyes of the riders with all the experiences, good and bad, challenges and accomplishments.

[Rob Goldie · Rating 4 out of 5]

All his books are fabulous. All brilliantly written

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5☆

[Newfad · Rating 3 out of 5]

In depth look at the main players who live on the edge competing in this near death and sadly real death bike race

[Jo Cleobury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book. 10/10

[Zach Florida · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid read about the Greatest Race Of All Time.

[Gem · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore both of Rick Broadbent's books - they give you a real insight into the personalities of some true legends. That Near Death Thing focuses on riders (past and present) who race the TT, and some of the important events that have happened over the years.

I love the way that Broadbent has captured the characters of McGuinness, Guy Martin and Michael Dunlop in particular - it's one of the very few books that I will actually be reading again and again.

My copy of this book was completely trashed on holiday, lovingly devoured and falling to pieces. You must read this book if you have any interest at all in motorbike racing and/or the Isle of Man TT.

[Steve Chilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit to having no interest in the TT or motor racing per se. I think I came to this through reading some Guy Martin stuff. Broadbent's book approaches the TT from the point of view of 4 riders: John McGuinness, Conor Cummins, Michael Dunlop and Guy Martin. It very well written, flowing well. It is composed of chapters with each rider, going into why these men put their lives on the line in such a tough event. An excellent read for anybody wanting an insight into the obsessive nature of dedicated professionals.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A few inaccuracies, a bit of artistic licence in places (where's the "gentle rolling hill" between the Grandstand and Douglas prom - I've yet to find that one!) plus a lack of attention to the sidecars but, like its film counterpart "Closer to the Edge", it sums the TT and all those involved in it up very well, captures the atmosphere.

[MR J D COOPER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought provoking

I'd expected a book filled with historical detail and early 20th century tales of daring. This book isn't that, but is all the better for being so. As a thought provoking journey through the race that is the TT, this book delivers. Very enjoyable as a prelu
de to this years races.

[Jamie Bowen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Isle of Man TT is a legendary road racing circuit, full of history, drama and tragedy. This book looks at one year’s TT races through the eyes of 4 of the top racers, John McGuiness, Guy Martin, Michael Dunlop and Conor Cummins. It brings the TT alive, the danger, the politics and what an iconic circuit the Isle of Man is through a chapter by chapter lap circuit. An excellent read

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and will defy read again. Sucks fantastic read. They was it written feels like I'm at the Tt with him.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devoured this book in one afternoon. Excellently researched, written with an unbiased opinion. Bravo Mr Broadbent! I rarely give 5 stars so I must be impressed.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Started it on Saturday, finished it on Sunday. Absolutely loved this book. A brilliant read, highly recommended. Dovetails wonderfully with TT3D.