Three Weeks, Eight Seconds: The Epic Tour de France of 1989

The 1989 Tour de France is considered one of the greatest ever, with American rider Greg LeMond overtaking France's Laurent Fignon on the final stage to win by eight seconds. The race was a titanic struggle between LeMond and Fignon, with the leader's yellow jersey swapping back and forth between them throughout the three weeks.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2019
Publisher: Birlinn General

The 1989 Tour de France stands as a truly remarkable and historic event in the world of cycling. It witnessed an incredible turnaround by American rider Greg LeMond, who overcame a 50-second deficit to France's Laurent Fignon on the final stage of the race, ultimately securing the title by a mere eight seconds. After enduring three grueling weeks and covering over 2,000 miles on the saddle, these few seconds remain the narrowest margin of victory in the race's illustrious 100+ year history. However, the 1989 Tour de France was far more than just a singular time-trial. It was a captivating saga filled with intense battles, twists, and turns, reminiscent of the most treacherous Alpine mountain passes. Throughout the entire three weeks, LeMond and Fignon were inseparable, with no more than 53 seconds separating them at any point. In his book "Three Weeks, Eight Seconds," author Nige Tassell vividly brings this extraordinary race to life, offering fresh interviews, new perspectives, and a deep exploration of its multi-faceted glory. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Tassell delves into the towering heights of adrenaline, agony, excitement, torment, and triumph that the 1989 Tour de France produced. The book sheds light on the intense competition, the unwavering determination of the riders, and the remarkable resilience they displayed throughout the grueling journey. It also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies, tactics, and personal struggles that shaped the outcome of the race. "Three Weeks, Eight Seconds" is a must-read for cycling enthusiasts, sports fans, and anyone who appreciates the sheer magnitude of human achievement and the indomitable spirit of competition. It serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness in the world of sports.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909715769