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Danny MacAskill's autobiography released today

Stunt legend and YouTube phenomenon charts his path to success in a new book, with exclusive sketch plans of now famous scenes

Danny MacAskill’s autobiography is out today, with inspiration and insight for fans of the street trials legend and YouTube phenomenon.

AT THE EDGE – Riding for My Life, plots the rise of the inimitable Scotsman with the cat-like balance, and how he became one of the most famous cyclists in the world. Danny also sheds light on how he comes up with the scenes and tricks for his videos, and includes some unique sketches, drawn by MacAskill, of some of his most famous film edits.

Many of MacAskill’s videos receive in excess of 10 million views, as he balances, jumps, hops and flips his way around the world. Way Back Home received 38 million views, The Ridge 44 million and Imaginate 57 Million. Some of us will never forget MacAskill and friends’ tribute to 80s hair rock, This is Drop and Roll. 

Video: Danny MacAskill's Cascadia - in 360 degrees!

MacAskill says: "I am always thinking about new film and trick ideas. It’s very important to write good ideas down in one way or another. The best way for me to do this is with a stickman drawing."

Danny MacAskill AT THE EDGE Sketch

“I am really looking forward to see what people have to say about the new book”.

Video: “Wee bit to go before you’re Danny MacAskill,” passer-by tells ... Danny MacAskill

The 30-year-old also reveals what it takes to continuously reach the next level – both mentally and physically.

MacAskill’s agents provided an amusing teaser from the book.

“I checked my balance and peered apprehensively at the sheer drop below. Once I felt comfortable, I radioed down to Stu.

‘I’m just gonna unclip quickly,’ I said.

My walkie-talkie crackled straight away. Stu sounded pretty stressed. ‘Dude, keep the rope on!’

I edged forward, my hands and feet scoping out the summit for any loose rock. The ridge pinnacle was still only a meter wide, if that, but I felt pretty stable. I yelled down to Stu. ‘This bit’s fine,’ I said. ‘The rope makes it harder for me… ’”

Legend. You can buy the book here.

 

Laura Laker is a freelance journalist with more than a decade’s experience covering cycling, walking and wheeling (and other means of transport). Beginning her career with road.cc, Laura has also written for national and specialist titles of all stripes. One part of the popular Streets Ahead podcast, she sometimes appears as a talking head on TV and radio, and in real life at conferences and festivals. She is also the author of Potholes and Pavements: a Bumpy Ride on Britain’s National Cycle Network.

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2 comments

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kitkat | 8 years ago
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What, no mention of the playboy mansion?  1 The Ridge is truly amazing although I still love his break through video in Edinburgh

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Z19zFlPah-o

 

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Simon E | 8 years ago
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Quote:

‘I’m just gonna unclip quickly,’ I said.

This was while climbing the Inaccessible Pinnacle one-handed with his FS MTB slung over his shoulder. It's in the video where they discuss the making of The Ridge - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFD-jCFUNNk

The Ridge is one of those rare creations where the term "awesome" is genuinely applicable. I was (and am still) truly in awe.

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