Dimensions
129 x 198 x 24mm
Sport, Gambling and Adventure in Regency Times.
The story of one of the most extraordinary sportsmen of Regency times and the world he inhabited.
On 1 June 1809 Captain Robert Barclay undertook what was then the greatest sporting feat ever attempted - to walk one thousand miles in one thousand hours for one thousand guineas. Six weeks later, exhausted and on the verge of collapsing, he completed his challenge and instantly became the most famous sporting figure of Regency times.
Gentleman, pugilist, athlete, trainer and soldier - Captain Barclay's life was reckless, extravagant and thrilling. Enormous sums of money were won and lost as people gambled on his latest challenge and he himself earned several fortunes, though he was to die in poverty.
His remarkable story opens a window on to the world of sport at that time - a rough, dangerous and often corrupt world driven by money.
