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by Myles Schrag (Author), Mo Farah (Foreword by), Abdi Abdirahman (Author)
"You cannot fail to be inspired by Abdi's story, an authentic tale by someone who clearly cherishes running and life." - Gary Lough, distance coach and former pro runner
Abdi's World is a quirky place where the only American distance athlete to qualify for five Olympics shares the stories that shaped his enduring love of running and his laid-back approach to life. Abdi Abdirahman arrived in Tucson, Arizona as a teenager when his family escaped civil war in their home country of Somalia. How the "Black Cactus," as he is affectionately known, stumbled upon a career as one of the world's most durable and beloved track and road racers of the 21st century is a story of resilience, commitment, and respect for friends and competitors alike--told here in a guide that is part life lessons, part training tips, part autobiography, and all Abdi. He has traveled the globe and shared his joie de vivre at every stop, showing a magician's ability to balance work and play that anyone young or old, in or out of running, could learn from to live a more meaningful life. Enter Abdi's World to join him on his insightful journey--and see what happens when you meet his stride.Author Biography
Abdi Abdirahman is the only American distance runner to qualify for five Olympics. Born in Somalia, Abdi came to Tucson, Arizona at age 16 after his family escaped civil war. "The Black Cactus," as the 44-year-old is affectionately known, is also the oldest American runner to qualify for the Olympics, the oldest male to podium at the New York City Marathon, and the US master's record holder in the marathon. Abdi is a four-time national champion at 10,000m and a five-time US road champion. He has represented the United States 13 times in international competitions. Myles Schrag is co-founder of Soulstice Publishing and the author of seven books. He holds a master's degree in kinesiology from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has helped more than 200 books reach publication as either an acquisitions editor, developmental editor, publisher, or manuscript broker. Foreword writer Sir Mo Farah took double gold in the 5000m and 10,000m at both the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, only the second runner ever to win both events at successive Olympic Games. He also completed the distance double at the 2013 and 2015 World Track and Field Championships. Farah, born in Somalia, is the most decorated British track athlete of all time.
