A new addition to the "Historical Dictionaries of Sports" series, this reference provides over 500 cross-referenced entries in alphabetical order; eight appendixes covering world records, Olympic winners, associations, and more; and a 17-page bibliography for further research. Entries are featured on Adidas, NIKE, Bruce Jenner, Jim Thorpe, and many other topics, including the IAAF World Athletes of the Year and various associations. Published during the same year as the London Olympics, this volume covers recent events involving key figures in track and field, governing bodies, and competitions/venues for sports such as pole vault, sprint, shot put, and relay, along with subjects such as political protests and doping. Anyone wanting to know more about track and field may obtain a good background here because this volume also deals with historical origins, especially in the introduction and chronology. Matthews has covered track and field (mostly for the BBC) for over 35 years. He also edits the International Athletics Annual and has reported on many Olympic Games. This reference will be an excellent addition to academic and public library collections. Summing Up: Recommended.

Choice Reviews

This dictionary is well written and thorough....The author has successfully presented their track and field knowledge and research to produce a well-written and comprehensive text. Individuals that are interested in any aspect of the track and field are likely to find this text to be informative.

American Reference Books Annual