Below the Surface: The History of Competitive Swimming

by John Lohn

A fascinating, in-depth look at the history of competitive swimming and the people and moments that have defined the sport. From the first modern Olympic Games to the present, Below the The History of Competitive Swimming covers all the greatest moments, top rivalries, legendary swimmers, and biggest controversies in swimming history. It features athletes like Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky, who have elevated the sport to an unprecedented level, and individual performances that are groundbreaking and awe-inspiring, such as Australian Fanny Durack becoming the first female Olympic gold medalist in 1912 and Jason Lezak leading the US to a come-from-behind victory in the 400 freestyle relay at the 2008 Olympics. While controversies such as doping and the advent of tech suits have troubled the sport, a new generation of athletes have produced fresh enthusiasm for competitive swimming. Below the Surface offers little-known stories, unique insight, and a detailed history of a great sport with a remarkable past and an exciting future.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports

310 pages, Hardcover

Published June 9, 2021

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Non-Fiction Book about Competitive Swimming. I have to say I really enjoyed most of this book, but there was parts of this book that I found boring. Honestly, I am just starting to really read non-fiction books. I think being a non-fiction book I really like it. Since, I have been staying home a lot because of covid-19 I have been watching Competitive swimming on youtube, and that is why I requested this book. I have to say I enjoyed learning more about the swimmers that I watched on TV. I think if you like watching competitive swimming or into it then you will enjoy this book. I do feel this book is well written, and it cover may different things that has happen to competitive swimming over the years. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Rowman & Littlefield Publishers) or author (John Lohn) via NetGalley, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Meg · Rating 2 out of 5]

How many times can one book mention that Michael Phelps, who went 8-for-8 in the 2008 Games in Beijing, won eight Olympic gold medals in 8 races in Beijing to beat Mark Spitz’s record?

[S Tondra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Below the Surface is a very well written history of competitive swimming. There are sections discussing legends (5 men and 5 women), historic moments, rivalries, controversies, upsets, and a few other topics which round out a pretty great book. Any fan of swimming will enjoy this comprehensive book on the sport.

Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for an eARC of this book in return for an honest review.