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Dare To Tri
Dare to Tri is the amazing story of TV presenter Louise Minchin's journey from the BBC Breakfast sofa to representing Great Britain at the World Triathlon Championships. This is a warmly written and wonderfully honest adventure-through-sport that will both entertain and inspire.'I didn't even know what a triathlon was before 2012. When I took up the sport three years ago I didn't imagine for a second then, that, one day, I would be able to represent my country internationally.' Louise MinchinWhat started out as a fun television cycling stunt culminated in BBC Breakfast's Louise Minchin wearing the colours of Great Britain at the World Triathlon Championships in her age group. This is the story of how a newly discoveredsport became a passion - and then an obsession.Dare to Tri is Louise's candid memoir of her incredible journey, recounting her rediscovery of competitive sport after nearly 30 years and her first tentative steps as a triathlete. In a story encompassing equal measures of determination and self-doubt, Louise has to overcome personal nerves, a brutal training regime, the odd bike crash and the occasional drama. Her adventure as she strives to represent Great Britain in triathlon is an inspiration for sporting late-starters everywhere.
256 pages, Paperback
Published February 7, 2019
46 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 18, 2021
This book tells the story of how Louise started her triathlon journey and ultimately competed for team GB. I found this story very interesting and I couldn’t put this book down; reading it in record time for me. If you are not into sports or racing, this book may not not be for you, however, I found it extremely interesting and inspiring. 4 and a half stars.
August 3, 2018
Loved this! Funny, very honest account of Louise's triathlon journey. Very inspiring read, I even braved my cleats for the first time in almost a year after reading this book!
January 8, 2021
Inspiring
November 5, 2023
Inspirational
Louise Minchin's highs and lows of triathlon training and racing are not just motivational for participants and potential participants in her own sport but must surely act as an incentive for anyone who has a dream (sporting or otherwise) to take their courage in their hands and try. Her triathlon story is written in an engaging chatty style and makes good reading, apart, perhaps, from the repetition of some points multiple times - though this is more if an editorial issue. I loved hearing about the support from her husband and young daughters, who indulged in some fabulous role reversal; from the mouths of babes... read the book and you'll soon see what I mean. Even Waffle the dog played her part in Louise's training!
And who knew there were so many types of triathlon?
In addition to an autobiographical account of her own experiences in the sport, Louise offers advice for the would-be or novice triathlete and also provides a list of useful websites. The photo section is pretty inspirational, too.
4.5 stars overall.
Louise Minchin's highs and lows of triathlon training and racing are not just motivational for participants and potential participants in her own sport but must surely act as an incentive for anyone who has a dream (sporting or otherwise) to take their courage in their hands and try. Her triathlon story is written in an engaging chatty style and makes good reading, apart, perhaps, from the repetition of some points multiple times - though this is more if an editorial issue. I loved hearing about the support from her husband and young daughters, who indulged in some fabulous role reversal; from the mouths of babes... read the book and you'll soon see what I mean. Even Waffle the dog played her part in Louise's training!
And who knew there were so many types of triathlon?
In addition to an autobiographical account of her own experiences in the sport, Louise offers advice for the would-be or novice triathlete and also provides a list of useful websites. The photo section is pretty inspirational, too.
4.5 stars overall.
July 29, 2023
I was a bit worried that this book may hold more form than matter but I'm glad I was so badly wrong! It's a great little book describing Louise's (not so!) unlikely journey into the world of triathlon competitions. I enjoyed her easy, conversational style, book structure and advice within it - anything from how to juggle work and family with intense training to how to align your equipment in the transition zone to be as efficient as possible! Her enthusiasm is infectious but it doesn't glaze over tough moments - her description of the New York marathon were so vivid that I really felt her exhaustion and was welling up when she finally made it to the finish line despite all the odds. If you're playing with an idea of committing to a bigger challenge - not necessarily a triathlon - this is definitely worth a read.
October 3, 2020
Easy read. Useful for newbies to triathlon.
September 22, 2021
A truly inspiring story of Louise's journey
March 21, 2022
Easy read and quite inspiring. A bit boring and repetitive towards the end.
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August 11, 2021It was good but not amazing, about 3.5 stars for me. I really liked the flow, the honesty, the story itself. It was interesting too in the earlier stages more than the latter ones.
I would say that once she qualified for the British team a lot of my interest wavered. All of it pretty much after her first GB event.
I do triathlons myself - at a VERY amateur level. I've been involved in sport for about 15 years though so I could relate to some of what she was saying.
I found it really frustrating and a bit annoying to read the many really basic and actually really ridiculous errors made when she should have known better with her experience.
As an example, she describes over about 3-4 chapters doing numerous events, triathlons and swims mainly. So she's clearly gaining experience. However, she then forgets really basic things or describes being worried about where to leave her bike... anyone that has done any triathlon learns very quickly where to put it... it obviously varies slightly on the event but it's not something to worry about, it's just the way that particular event is structured. As a result of this, it came a cross a bit insincere to me, or at best naieve and immature...
Further to this, once she'd qualified for the GB squad she then describes not having enough water in the hot climate, as she'd been thinking in the morning about the temperature then rather than once it heated up later in the day.... this to me is crazy. How do you possibly qualify for the GB squad and make this error? How do you not talk to your team mates, the competition, how do you not get coached or think about nutrition, hydration, equipment, the climate? It absolutely baffles me.
She's clearly really talented, both as a presenter and an athlete. I enjoyed the book and aside from these fairly minor things which annoyed me a bit, it was a good/quick read.
I would say that once she qualified for the British team a lot of my interest wavered. All of it pretty much after her first GB event.
I do triathlons myself - at a VERY amateur level. I've been involved in sport for about 15 years though so I could relate to some of what she was saying.
I found it really frustrating and a bit annoying to read the many really basic and actually really ridiculous errors made when she should have known better with her experience.
As an example, she describes over about 3-4 chapters doing numerous events, triathlons and swims mainly. So she's clearly gaining experience. However, she then forgets really basic things or describes being worried about where to leave her bike... anyone that has done any triathlon learns very quickly where to put it... it obviously varies slightly on the event but it's not something to worry about, it's just the way that particular event is structured. As a result of this, it came a cross a bit insincere to me, or at best naieve and immature...
Further to this, once she'd qualified for the GB squad she then describes not having enough water in the hot climate, as she'd been thinking in the morning about the temperature then rather than once it heated up later in the day.... this to me is crazy. How do you possibly qualify for the GB squad and make this error? How do you not talk to your team mates, the competition, how do you not get coached or think about nutrition, hydration, equipment, the climate? It absolutely baffles me.
She's clearly really talented, both as a presenter and an athlete. I enjoyed the book and aside from these fairly minor things which annoyed me a bit, it was a good/quick read.
August 27, 2024
A decent if somewhat formulaic story.
This isn't a spectacular, ground-breaking piece of literature. Minchin does some sport, really likes it, qualifies for team GB and does it some more. That's about it. She has a supportive network of family and friends and her trials and tribulations are fairly minor (and often not covered in much detail).
She has done a great thing and as an occasional BBC Breakfast viewer I found it interesting to read about her doing this. The last hour or so after she'd been in team GB and seemingly lost her sense of purpose did feel a bit like filler.
The narration was done very well and it was great to listen to. I think this is a good book to have on in the background when you're doing other things.
This isn't a spectacular, ground-breaking piece of literature. Minchin does some sport, really likes it, qualifies for team GB and does it some more. That's about it. She has a supportive network of family and friends and her trials and tribulations are fairly minor (and often not covered in much detail).
She has done a great thing and as an occasional BBC Breakfast viewer I found it interesting to read about her doing this. The last hour or so after she'd been in team GB and seemingly lost her sense of purpose did feel a bit like filler.
The narration was done very well and it was great to listen to. I think this is a good book to have on in the background when you're doing other things.
May 10, 2018
I'm aware of Louise Minchin as a TV presenter but I had no idea that she did triathlons. And at such a high level.
I greatly admire her sporting ability (in three disciplines), her guts, her resilience and her determination.
This book is an enjoyable read and really gives you a feel for the joy and benefits that training and competing in sport can bring, as well as the emotional and physical demands it makes. It was most interesting to me as I am the same age as LM and took up competitive (masters) swimming last year after a gap of 35 years. Unfortunately my circumstances are different so I have been unable to carry on, but LM is very inspirational and makes me want to try again.
I greatly admire her sporting ability (in three disciplines), her guts, her resilience and her determination.
This book is an enjoyable read and really gives you a feel for the joy and benefits that training and competing in sport can bring, as well as the emotional and physical demands it makes. It was most interesting to me as I am the same age as LM and took up competitive (masters) swimming last year after a gap of 35 years. Unfortunately my circumstances are different so I have been unable to carry on, but LM is very inspirational and makes me want to try again.
June 20, 2019
An inspirational and easy read. Louise Minchin took part in a challenge for BBC Breakfast in 2012 with her co-presenters. It was to ride the velodrome, a scary prospect. But Louise loved it so much and, having been a strong swimmer in her teenage years, decided to try a triathlon. This was the start of a journey for her which she is still enjoying. She discovered she was good for her age group in the sport and went on to enter the European and World championships for her age group. I loved this book because it shows a real person, with the real fears and apprehensions we all feel on race days. I also love that she too has a bike cluttering up her hall!
June 13, 2018
Louise Minchin is a busy lady, BBC presenter, mother and wife but a Christmas TV challenge for BBC Breakfast made her life become a little bit more busier. That challenge cycling around the Manchester Velodrome and competing against her fellow presenters, it re-ignited Louise's passion for sport. This is her story, the hard work, the failures, the successes and how she became a Team GB Triathlete. An inspirational story, showing how if you put your mind to something you can achieve great things.
July 27, 2018
Totally enjoyable and inspiring read
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this book and it has inspired me to look further into triathlon...& even maybe a marathon. One day I hope to try! I think that is the essence of this book...it doesn’t matter what speed you do it, just go and do it, and importantly, enjoy it. Which is great encouragement for those like me. Can’t wait!
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this book and it has inspired me to look further into triathlon...& even maybe a marathon. One day I hope to try! I think that is the essence of this book...it doesn’t matter what speed you do it, just go and do it, and importantly, enjoy it. Which is great encouragement for those like me. Can’t wait!
August 12, 2019
Great wee read and very inspirational to hear her story. I would have liked to read more about her training but great to hear how she tackles getting through the tough times mentally and how she motivates herself. I'd love to read another one now that's she's competed in both Patagonman and Norseman!
August 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this and it is not the type of book I am usually into. I love the down to earth honesty that comes through. It’s not an excuse for how she lives but a celebration of the struggles and achievements pertaining to part of her life. Not sure if I will dare to tri but I do feel like trying to get into something.
December 8, 2019
Although I don't think I will be doing any triathlons, I enjoyed reading about Louise's journey and am inspired to set my own goals.
It has also helped me have an understanding of the rules of the triathlon system so can be calmer when my son takes part.
A brilliant read and helped me complete my goodreads challenge for 2019!
It has also helped me have an understanding of the rules of the triathlon system so can be calmer when my son takes part.
A brilliant read and helped me complete my goodreads challenge for 2019!
March 12, 2019
A tad too normal to be wowzers inspiring. This could be as I have competed in a lot of the same events so the long narratives were a bit dull, (though obviously the World Champs have eluded me somewhat.)
May 28, 2019
A really gripping and inspiring read
Well written and compelling, this book charts Louise's triathlon journey from start to present.
I started reading it hoping it would inspire me to get back out running.
Well written and compelling, this book charts Louise's triathlon journey from start to present.
I started reading it hoping it would inspire me to get back out running.
February 14, 2020
The best book i have ever read !!!
You really do feel like you are on the journey with her.
I've already recommended this book to people.
I really hope she brings another book out and I wish her every success in the future.
Keep Tri ing !!!!!
You really do feel like you are on the journey with her.
I've already recommended this book to people.
I really hope she brings another book out and I wish her every success in the future.
Keep Tri ing !!!!!
February 16, 2021
In Dare to Tri Louise Minchin discusses her journey as she picks up not only a wetsuit for the first time, but also a road bike and a pair of running shoes to become a GB triathlete. I found Minchin's story both endearing and inspiring. She certainly does not shy away from the lows she experienced over the years as she slowly progresses from novice cycler to fully-fledged athlete. Her determination to achieve the goal she has set herself is infectious and I'm almost tempted to give it a try myself. Well almost tempted...
Whilst the book can be slightly repetitive at times, and you can certainly tell she is a news anchor from her delivery of the audiobook at times, Dare to Tri is a captivating story that will have you cheering Louise on from the metaphorical side-lines.
Whilst the book can be slightly repetitive at times, and you can certainly tell she is a news anchor from her delivery of the audiobook at times, Dare to Tri is a captivating story that will have you cheering Louise on from the metaphorical side-lines.
August 11, 2021
An amazing book that is recommended for every woman interested in trying triathlons or any other endurance races. I learned a lot about how the races are happening, how to train, and how to motivate yourself to complete challenges. What's more, it got me motivated for a 10k run :)
February 9, 2024
Giving this five stars for the encouragement it gave me to get out there training and sign up for some scary events. Louise tells her story with honesty, humour and great insight. I always find stories like this inspirational, definitely one I would recommend.
September 11, 2024
I couldn't give this any less. It was a lovely read. Promoting the power of exercise. Louise documented her training and races on the path to join the GB team. It was a feel good read, which really makes me excited to do more triathlons.
September 10, 2025
This book supported me through my first Triathlon and really highlighted how it's less about being amazing at something and more about how fantastic it feels to try hard when something isn't easy and achieve what you thought was impossible!
April 5, 2019
Great reading
A great read, well worth it if your starting out in the world of triathlon, shows that everyone has fears
A great read, well worth it if your starting out in the world of triathlon, shows that everyone has fears
November 25, 2019
Inspiring.
December 27, 2019
If you need some inspiration, this is the book
February 28, 2020
Some good tips for beginner triathletes and fun lessons to be learnt from. A warming story of trying and giving things a good go!
June 25, 2020
An inspiration for a 57 year old bloke.
Now I don't think about going for that ride/run. I just go. Inspired by the positivity and doubts that Louise overcame at every turn.
Now I don't think about going for that ride/run. I just go. Inspired by the positivity and doubts that Louise overcame at every turn.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews