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Team Spirit: Life and Leadership on One of the World's Toughest Yacht Races
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- GenresNonfictionLeadership
256 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2012
22 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 17, 2023
I love buying and reading these types of books.
Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
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Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/concept-23-c...
https://numberoneboats.com/concept-23...
https://theboatyacht.com/baja-38-spec...
https://numberoneboats.com/baja-38-sp...
December 7, 2023
An interesting enough read. It gives you a good idea of what it is like to sail around the world (spoiler: it's quite terrible). It also gives a peak of what it is like to be part of a high performing team, though this is limited by the fact that it is written by the skipper and therefore centered on his thoughts, actions and emotions. Most of all this is a book about how to be a good leader. The lessons are not very surprising, but convincing. Having said that, it is important to be aware that the conditions of ocean sailing are in many ways different from your average office work days.
November 23, 2024
Having sailed in the Clipper Race in 2024, I found this book to be a thrilling and chilling reminder of what it’s like to sail around the world. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of the preparation required for the race, the experience of regular sailors during the voyage, and the challenges they face, while also offering insights into what it takes to win. Although the book is detailed, I felt the second part was too short, leaving out important details about the second half of the race.
December 7, 2025
Fascinating insight into the Clipper races told by an absolute arrogant nob of a man. No doubt it’s a hell of a job and not for everyone. Simply remarkable that he made it back and wasn’t “accidentally knocked overboard” after a few legs. An astounding feat of endurance from the crew putting up with such a phenomenal twat.
January 1, 2024
I really loved this book. I think the he done a great job of keeping the chapters focussed on the key events despite perhaps feeling like a rush ending.
I’d recommend if into sailing/sea or leadership books. Some really gnarly stories and thoughts.
I’d recommend if into sailing/sea or leadership books. Some really gnarly stories and thoughts.
June 19, 2021
Sailing, world travel, leadership development, and raw adventure. It’s got everything.
February 6, 2024
Beyond sea adventure and leadership.
March 20, 2025
Really interesting insight into sailing around the world and leadership lessons learnt. Enjoyed hearing Brendan answer questions at our work book club!
December 9, 2013
It's fair to say that with Brendan Hall's Team Spirit there are no great surprises, you get what you would expect.
The book is well written, sensitive to the many and varied characters making up his team being mostly amateur sailors of varied experience, pooled from all walks of civilian life, and equally so to his competitors. The descriptive passages of the conditions encountered at sea, and the physical and mental challenges put the reader in his shoes in an understated way, Hall is not one for over dramatising or for bragging, and is willing to acknowledge mistakes and weaknesses, and it is how these are recognised and dealt with that will make him a great team leader and ultimately victorious.
He also does not overdo the nautical terminology so ensuring the book will have a wider appeal than for those solely interesting in sea racing or team sports in general.
Whilst the book is mostly an interesting journal there is the aspect that it also has a focus on the leadership lessons and there is a summary of these are the end of each section, which reads like corporate conference or bonding exercises. This of course is entirely intentional as the book is aimed as much at that market as at the adventure reader.
Hall manages to achieve both but is very close to overdoing the business emphasis which can become a little repetitive.
Perhaps the most interesting phase of the book comes when, with Hall's Spirit of Australia storming away on a winning streak, all competitive urges are suspended to assist another boat and its crew in desperate, and life threatening trouble.
Team Spirit works as a business guide and as real life adventure read, and so should have a life well beyond the immediate afterglow of the sporting triumph.
I was very pleased to receive Team Spirit as a GoodReads Giveaway and to offer a considered review in return.
The book is well written, sensitive to the many and varied characters making up his team being mostly amateur sailors of varied experience, pooled from all walks of civilian life, and equally so to his competitors. The descriptive passages of the conditions encountered at sea, and the physical and mental challenges put the reader in his shoes in an understated way, Hall is not one for over dramatising or for bragging, and is willing to acknowledge mistakes and weaknesses, and it is how these are recognised and dealt with that will make him a great team leader and ultimately victorious.
He also does not overdo the nautical terminology so ensuring the book will have a wider appeal than for those solely interesting in sea racing or team sports in general.
Whilst the book is mostly an interesting journal there is the aspect that it also has a focus on the leadership lessons and there is a summary of these are the end of each section, which reads like corporate conference or bonding exercises. This of course is entirely intentional as the book is aimed as much at that market as at the adventure reader.
Hall manages to achieve both but is very close to overdoing the business emphasis which can become a little repetitive.
Perhaps the most interesting phase of the book comes when, with Hall's Spirit of Australia storming away on a winning streak, all competitive urges are suspended to assist another boat and its crew in desperate, and life threatening trouble.
Team Spirit works as a business guide and as real life adventure read, and so should have a life well beyond the immediate afterglow of the sporting triumph.
I was very pleased to receive Team Spirit as a GoodReads Giveaway and to offer a considered review in return.
June 22, 2013
I'm in complete awe of Brendan Hall and the incredible journey he has undertaken - both in a sailing and personal capacity. His ability to meticulously plan and create a winning mentality within himself and a random group of amateur sailors is nothing short of miraculous.
His leadership approach started with open, honest and frank discussions with himself that started a journey packed with evidence building, continuous improvement and clear communication. He has demonstrated the extraordinary willpower and capacity of man to succeed and is a true inspiration.
Not only is Hall an accomplished sailor and leader of people, his writing is also second to none. Many travel accounts have a distance to the reader that cannot be bridged but Team Spirit brings you into the boat, into his world to give you a fantastic insight into a round the world race.
His leadership tips are concise and succinct and very readable making this book a must-read for anyone interested in sailing or equally personal development.
This has got to be one of the best books I've ever read.
His leadership approach started with open, honest and frank discussions with himself that started a journey packed with evidence building, continuous improvement and clear communication. He has demonstrated the extraordinary willpower and capacity of man to succeed and is a true inspiration.
Not only is Hall an accomplished sailor and leader of people, his writing is also second to none. Many travel accounts have a distance to the reader that cannot be bridged but Team Spirit brings you into the boat, into his world to give you a fantastic insight into a round the world race.
His leadership tips are concise and succinct and very readable making this book a must-read for anyone interested in sailing or equally personal development.
This has got to be one of the best books I've ever read.
October 31, 2013
Team Spirit is a memoir of, Aussie Brendan Hall's, race winning skippering experience of the 2009-2010 Clipper Round the World yacht Race. While the race itself took an impressive 10 months to complete, the entire campaign to prepare and complete the race was a 2 year process. The race itself is an excellent analogy of life, but the book is also about leadership and managing oneself and a team. Regardless of one's interest in sailing, this is an exciting and inspirational read, offering good pearls of wisdom about human interaction and care through life's inevitable highs and lows. This would make a excellent graduation gift for older teens and young adults, business people and adventurous types. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
October 29, 2013
I don't usually read a lot of autobiographies and admittedly this is not Brendan's whole life but about his planning, taking part and winning the Clipper yacht race. Although I have always thought it would be fantastic taking part in these events his descriptions of what occurs makes me think I have a too romanticised version.
It's a must read for both sea lovers and for future managers alike. After each chapter Brendan states what life lessons he has learnt from the events that take place and this transcends into every day working as well.
It's a must read for both sea lovers and for future managers alike. After each chapter Brendan states what life lessons he has learnt from the events that take place and this transcends into every day working as well.
January 15, 2020
A fantastic read! Really changed my way of thinking about leadership and interacting as part of a team. Brendan really shows that when you put your mind to something and persevere you can achieve great things.
If you are looking for an account of the Clipper Race this is the wrong book for you. But if you are looking for a great book about how to be the best leader you can be then look no further.
If you are looking for an account of the Clipper Race this is the wrong book for you. But if you are looking for a great book about how to be the best leader you can be then look no further.
July 31, 2019
A race around the world in a boat, what could possibly go wrong?
Plenty, as it turns out. Lots of leadership learnings. But the drama of the race does not really come across and though the major incidents are well told, there's no real edge of your seat stuff.
There are better books on the loneliness of round the world boat trips.
Plenty, as it turns out. Lots of leadership learnings. But the drama of the race does not really come across and though the major incidents are well told, there's no real edge of your seat stuff.
There are better books on the loneliness of round the world boat trips.
June 19, 2016
This is an utterly brilliant book. An incredible story of a round the world race, from which skipper Brendan Hall brings out one lesson after another that could revolutionize your life and leadership. Do yourself a big favour and read it. Now!
October 30, 2013
Great book showing how important team management is. Well recommended read.
December 31, 2014
Loved this honest review of a crazy as hell around the world yacht race with inexperienced sailors. Amazing
March 21, 2015
Really enjoyable book that I could not put down. Will definitely re-read soon.
An interesting story anyway but full of great pieces of advice in terms of leadership, motivation and self-awareness.
An interesting story anyway but full of great pieces of advice in terms of leadership, motivation and self-awareness.
September 13, 2016
A vey exciting book - a real page turner! Any desire to do ocean racing has well and truly evaporated! A story of persistence and teamwork.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews