What I have been reading lately #44

Go Like Hell: Ford, Ferrari, and Their Battle for Speed and Glory at Le Mans - A.J. Baime

In the early 1960s, the Ford Motor Company decided they wanted to get into racing and spent a lot of money to start winning quickly. Ford especially wanted to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race which Ferrari had dominated for years. This book is about the 1966 race and the events leading up to it.

This book is one of the saddest books I have read in years. Not only does the wrong team win, but the wrong driver as well. Plus, a lot of people keep dying. I cannot say more than that without spoiling the ending.

Below: Henry Ford II with soon-to-be Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara

Below: Enzo Ferrari

Togo football team's bus attacked

According to news reports, the team bus of Togo's national football team was attacked on Friday as it drove into Angola for the African Cup of Nations. The bus driver is reported to have died, and at least nine others have been hurt. Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor was not hurt in the attack, which is believed to have been carried out by separatist rebels. To hear his description of the event, click here.

Update (January 9, 2010): Togo have withdrawn from the tournament.

AC Milan official (but sad) note

This official note was posted on the AC Milan website a short while ago:

A.C. MILAN OFFICIAL NOTE

8/28/2009

MILAN - A.C. Milan communicate they have mutually resolved the working contract with the footballers Mathias Cardacio and Tabaré Viudez. Thanking them for what they have shown during their experience with the Rossoneri, Milan wish the two young footballers all the best for their future.

What this means, in plain English, is that the two Uruguayan players have been released by the team. Even though the rarely played last year, it was always exciting wondering if they would make an appearance as a late substitute during a game. They will be missed.

Above: Viudez

Below: Cardacio