Gold from Iron: A Humble Beginning, Olympic Dreams, and the Power in Getting Back Up

Nick Baumgartner, a professional snowboarder, pursued his dreams despite 17 years of failure and won Olympic gold at 40 years old, becoming the oldest Olympic snowboard medalist in history. His memoir, Gold from Iron, details his journey from a one-stoplight town to the podium in Beijing, including his reflections as a single parent and his affectionate portrayal of Iron River, Michigan.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: Triumph Books

In the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a young man named Nick Baumgartner embarked on a remarkable journey every summer. With unwavering determination, he embraced the demanding physical challenges of the construction trade, all in pursuit of his cherished dream of becoming a professional snowboarder. Despite the financial constraints that prevented him from affording housing during his months of training in the mountains, he bravely lived out of a crusty van, finding solace wherever he could secure a parking spot.

After 17 years of relentless pursuit, fueled by countless crashes, injuries, and personal setbacks, Baumgartner's perseverance paid off in 2022. At the age of 40, he achieved an historic milestone by winning Olympic gold, becoming the oldest Olympic snowboard medalist in history. In his candid and endearing memoir, Gold from Iron, Baumgartner shares the captivating story of his journey from a small one-stoplight town to the prestigious podium in Beijing.

Through his memoir, Baumgartner invites readers into his world, offering a glimpse into the exhilarating experiences of crisscrossing the globe on the racing circuit and competing in four Olympic Games. But beyond the sports arena, Baumgartner delves into the profound aspects of his life as a single parent and his affectionate portrayal of Iron River, Michigan, the community that nurtured his growth.

Gold from Iron is more than just a sports story; it is a testament to the power of massive dreams, unwavering sacrifice, and the invaluable lessons learned while racing down an ice-covered course, feet firmly strapped to a thin board. Baumgartner's triumph serves as a reminder that perseverance, resilience, and unwavering commitment can lead to extraordinary accomplishments, transcending the boundaries of age and circumstance.

Weight: 568g
Dimension: 236 x 160 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781637275450