'A Dog in a Hat' by Joe Parkin

This quirky Belgian expression means when something looks out of place. 18 year old Joe Parkin announced to his family he wasn't going to college, he wanted to live and race in Europe and inspired by Bob Roll (7-Eleven) pitched up in Belgium. After a couple of seasons, he turned pro for a small squad Transvemij-Van Schilt  specialising in kermesse & criterium races., many of which have disappeared from the racing calendar. However 5 years later it was all over and Joe returned to the States despite getting a contract with Tulip Computers in 1991 & 1992 to ride with one of his hero's Adri Van der Poel on the road and in cycle-cross events. This book lays bear the  realities of pro bike racing in Belgium in the late 80's & early 90's, wind, rain, endless suffering, doping, race selling, double-crossing team-mates etc. Roll says this is one of the most authentic books written about making a living as a pro in Belgium and believe me, it is!
Price : £14.99 + £1.50 p&p