Wide-Eyed and Legless

Wide-Eyed and Legless cover
Good Books rating 4.0
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Technical
  • ID: 6290
  • Added: 2025-11-09
  • Updated: 2025-11-09
  • ISBN: 9781845968014
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-04-07
  • Reviews: 3

In 1987, the Tour de France made history when Irishman Stephen Roche emerged victorious, marking the first time a non-Continental or American champion had won the race. Jeff Connor, embedded with the British team ANC Halfords, offers an unfiltered, fly-on-the-wall account of the grueling 26-day event. Wide-Eyed and Legless delves into the extraordinary endurance, strategic bungling, and hidden chicanery that define this iconic marathon. Beyond the heroism and athleticism, Connor reveals the darker side of the sport, including illicit drug use and behind-the-scenes maneuvering. This long-awaited new edition of the classic book is a must-read for cycling enthusiasts and sports fans alike, offering a vivid and eye-opening look at one of the world's most challenging sporting events. /n/nJeff Connor's vivid storytelling captures the essence of the Tour de France, from the physical and mental toll on the athletes to the strategic battles and controversies that unfold behind the scenes. His firsthand account provides a unique perspective on what it takes to compete and survive in such a demanding environment. With its blend of humor, drama, and raw honesty, Wide-Eyed and Legless stands as a testament to the spirit of endurance and the complexities of professional cycling.

Reviews
Cyclist · 2025-10-06
classic 4.50

The book is a classic in cycling literature, offering a fly-on-the-wall look at the Tour de France. It's a must-read for cycling enthusiasts.

Cyclist's review highlights the book as a classic in cycling literature. The reviewer appreciates the fly-on-the-wall perspective, which provides an intimate look at the Tour de France. They note that the book is not just about the race but also about the people involved, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also highlights the book's humor and insight, which add depth to the narrative. Overall, it's a must-read for anyone interested in the sport.


Quick quotes

    Wide-Eyed and Legless, Jeff Connor​​ In 1987 the Daily Star's Jeff Connor set off to cover the Tour de France with the first British squad to ...

    The book is a classic in cycling literature, offering a fly-on-the-wall look at the Tour de France.

    It's a must-read for cycling enthusiasts.

Podium Cafe · 2011-06-14
entertaining 4.00

The book offers a unique perspective on the Tour de France, capturing the essence of the sport and the team's journey. It's a blend of humor and insight, making it an engaging read for cycling enthusiasts.

Podium Cafe's review highlights the book's ability to transport readers into the heart of the Tour de France. The author's firsthand account provides a raw and unfiltered look at the highs and lows of the race, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the blend of humor and insight, which adds depth to the narrative. They also note that the book's focus on the team's journey makes it stand out from other cycling books. Overall, it's a must-read for anyone interested in the sport.


Quick quotes

    Jeff Connor's Wide-Eyed and Legless is an account of the team the McCartneys ended up emulating, right down to their ending: ANC-Halfords.

    The book offers a unique perspective on the Tour de France, capturing the essence of the sport and the team's journey.

    It's a blend of humor and insight, making it an engaging read for cycling enthusiasts.

The Washing Machine Post · 2011-04-12
humorous 3.50

The book is a candid and humorous account of the Tour de France, offering a unique perspective on the sport. It's a must-read for cycling fans.

The Washing Machine Post's review praises the book for its candid and humorous take on the Tour de France. The reviewer appreciates the author's unique perspective and the way he captures the essence of the sport. They note that the book is not just about cycling but also about the people involved, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also highlights the book's humor, which adds a layer of entertainment to the narrative. Overall, it's a must-read for anyone interested in the sport.


Quick quotes

    Wide-eyed and legless by Jeff Connor. mainstream publishing paperback 192pp illus. £10.99.

    Although open to much debate, the book offers a unique perspective on the Tour de France.

    The book is a candid and humorous account of the Tour de France, offering a unique perspective on the sport.

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