Running with the Champ

“When I heard that Tim Shanahan was writing a book about Muhammad Ali I was excited, because for the first time we’d get a chance to look at the Champ from the perspective of a real friend. In the years that I have spoken to Tim, it seems that we never run out of stories about the Great Ali. Tim has taken the term ‘brother’ to another level; no one has been as close to the Champ as Tim Shanahan. Read with me and celebrate true friendship.” – George Foreman
“Oh my! This is the reader’s opportunity to get inside the ropes with ‘The Greatest.’ Tim Shanahan’s book is a knockout read, offering rare insight into the man regarded as the most powerful and prominent athlete of his time.” – Dick Enberg
“Of all of his great achievements in life, from champion prizefighter to goodwill ambassador to instrument of hope for the underprivileged, it is quite lovely to learn that Muhammad Ali was also a devoted friend. In his affectionate memoir of their long and durable bond, Tim Shanahan reminds us of a sometimes overlooked aspect of The Champ—that in stride with the wonderful talent and wild antics that kept us so entertained walks a man of profound decency.” – Mark Kram, Jr., author of the PEN Literary Award-winning Like Any Normal Day
“An affectionate portrait of boxing legend Muhammad Ali… . Charming moments abound… . If you’re wondering why Ali is called ‘The Greatest,’ this … pleasant memoir makes for a good place to start.” * Kirkus Reviews *
“An engrossing story…of an enviable friendship. … Shanahan comes off as a likable guy…it’s easy to understand why the fighter allowed him into his inner circle.” * Publishers Weekly *
“Shanahan presents a complex but less bombastic person than is popularly associated with the name; generous to a fault, devoted to his religion and…family, and a champion of the less fortunate. This view of a fabled boxer from the unusual angle of friendship offers justification beyond the boxing ring for calling Ali ‘The Greatest.’” * Library Journal *
“If you thought you knew about the life of Muhammad Ali, think again. His best friend—unknown until now to all but Ali’s closest insiders and family members—gives us new insight into Ali’s thoughts, hopes, dreams and fears. Awesome!” – Larry Elder, host of the nationally syndicated “The Larry Elder Show”

Tim Shanahan has been a close and trusted friend of Muhammad Ali and his family for nearly forty years. He retired in 2013 as regional sales manager covering five Western states for a medical products company. Running with the Champ is his first book.

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