Chasing Grace: What the Quarter Mile Has Taught Me about God and Life

Chasing Grace: What the Quarter Mile Has Taught Me about God and Life

by Sanya Richards-Ross

Narrated by Sanya Richards-Ross

Unabridged — 3 hours, 35 minutes

Chasing Grace: What the Quarter Mile Has Taught Me about God and Life

Chasing Grace: What the Quarter Mile Has Taught Me about God and Life

by Sanya Richards-Ross

Narrated by Sanya Richards-Ross

Unabridged — 3 hours, 35 minutes

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Overview

For as long as she can remember, Olympic gold medalist Sanya Richards-Ross's life has been measured in seconds. The fewer, the better. But when the race is over, how do you know what to run towards next? In Chasing Grace, join Sanya as she helps you see your own experiences through God's eyes.

Most people equate success with having more, but Sanya's quest was always for less. She started running track as a little girl in Jamaica and began competing when she was only seven. Now in her thirties, she's already had a career's worth of conditioning to run a 400-meter race in 50 seconds or fewer--hopefully 49, or even better, 48.

When she started training with her coach, Clyde Hart, they divided her race into four distinct phases: push, pace, position, and pose. For years, Sanya worked to hone every phase in practice so when it came time to race, her body would respond as her mind instinctively transitioned from one phase to the next. As she got older and embraced a life that measures more than just a number on the stopwatch, she's realized the genius of this strategy for not just racing the 400 meters, but for living her best life.

As you learn more about Sanya and her incredible story, she gives you the tools and encouragement you need to:

  • Chase your dreams, no matter how impossible they seem
  • Forgive wholeheartedly
  • Commit to the finish line

In Chasing Grace, Sanya shares both triumphant and heartbreaking stories as she reveals her journey to becoming a world-class runner. From her childhood in Jamaica to the Olympic Games in Athens, Beijing, and London, you'll find yourself inspired by the unique insights she's gained through her victories and losses, including her devastating injury during the 2016 Olympic Trials, which forced her career retirement just weeks before the Rio Games. Sanya demonstrates how these highs and lows brought her closer to her ultimate goal of becoming all God created her to be--and how you can do the same.

Praise for Chasing Grace:

"Sanya Richards-Ross has represented Team USA so well for her entire career. But she was born in Jamaica, and I can connect to the winner's spirit that we share. I'm proud of everything Sanya has accomplished, including the writing of Chasing Grace. Through her vulnerability in sharing some of her most personal stories of victory and defeat, triumph and tribulation, I once again see her strength."

--Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, eight-time Olympic gold medalist, eleven-time World Champion, and four-time Laureus World Sportsman of the Year

"In a world that often defines public achievement as success, Sanya Richards-Ross reveals in Chasing Grace that her greatest feat in life was not on a track for the world to see, but rather in her soul where God would serve as the ultimate coach. She now shares wisdom from the deep reservoir of her pains, joys, trials, and triumphs that will inspire us all to pursue the grace race with confidence, trust, optimism, and unshaken faith."

--Sarah Jakes Roberts, bestselling author of Woman Evolve and copastor of The Potter's House at One LA


Editorial Reviews

NOVEMBER 2017 - AudioFile

As she humbly shares the lessons she’s learned about track, life, and God, Sanya Richards-Ross encourages listeners to never stop striving to run the good race. Richards-Ross begins her story by inviting listeners into her family’s home in Jamaica, where she is preparing for one of her earliest races. She transitions into each new chapter as she would into the next stretch of a track, and in an earnest tone she explains her strategy for racing and life: push, pace, position, and prayer. Reliving the dedication and decisions that led her from dreaming on a Jamaican middle school track to representing Team USA on an Olympic track, Richards-Ross’s voice remains warm, reminiscent, and confident. This self-read memoir gives listeners the amazing opportunity to experience her journey in a personal way. V.C. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine

Publishers Weekly

05/29/2017
In her forthright book, Richards-Ross (Run with Me), a Jamaican-American former track and field athlete and Olympic gold medalist, chronicles her lifelong quest to become one of the world’s best runners and the best version of herself. The book traces her career from her first days on the track as a seven-year-old in Jamaica to breaking the American 400-meter record. The book is primarily organized chronologically, but she frames it around the four phases of her races—push, pace, position and poise—and connects each chapter to broader life lessons that can be applied off the track. Richards-Ross is refreshingly candid about deeply personal subjects that are generally considered taboo: she is open about seeing a sports psychologist to help her deal with the enormous pressure of her races, and she divulges that she had an abortion shortly before the 2008 Olympics, a decision she says “broke” her and strained her marriage to NFL player Aaron Ross. This is a refreshing behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of a professional athlete that emphasizes her hard work and dedication to achieving her goals. Agent: David Larabell, CAA. (June)Correction: An earlier version of this review incorrectly noted that this is the second book written by Richards-Ross.

Vince Young

'Sanya Richards-Ross is the definition of a champion on and off the track. Her focus, ambition, and passion were evident dating back to our time at the University of Texas. Chasing Grace is an incredibly inspiring story of how she used her God-given abilities to win gold while ultimately finding her true purpose. I'm proud of the woman she has become and her bravery in sharing her story.'

author Sarah Jakes Roberts

'In a world that often defines public achievement as success, Sanya Richards-Ross reveals in Chasing Grace that her greatest feat in life was not on a track for the world to see, but rather in her soul where God would serve as the ultimate coach. She now shares wisdom from the deep reservoir of her pains, joys, trials, and triumphs that will inspire us all to pursue the grace race with confidence, trust, optimism, and unshaken faith.'

two-time Olympic decathlon gold medalist and world Ashton Eaton

'When I was a young athlete, my coaches used to explain what I should aspire to be, and Sanya Richards-Ross was always the standard. Powerful, graceful, caring; physically, mentally, and morally sound. You had to wonder how she came to be. Thankfully we don't anymore. It's a pleasure to finally read her operating manual.'

Laila Ali

'Chasing Grace is not only the story of a young girl who followed her dreams and became an Olympic champion, but also a collection of valuable lessons that were learned along the way. Sanya Richards-Ross has written a wonderful book for those who want to be inspired and uplifted while learning how to successfully handle all the challenges we inevitably face in life.'

the greatest female athlete of the twentieth centu Jackie Joyner-Kersee

'Chasing Grace is an excellent read for anyone who is searching for ways to be encouraged and motivated to never give up on pursuing the dream. Sanya Richards-Ross, the five-time Olympic medalist, has illustrated throughout her career patience, perseverance, and perspective on what it takes to become a champion on and off the field with God's grace. Chasing Grace is the script for a manual that can help guide anyone wanting to be the best. Once you start reading, you will find it difficult to stop turning the pages in the anticipation of wanting more.'

Michael Strahan

'I will always say that I am eternally grateful to the game of football—for what it gave me and what it taught me. Through my sport, I learned to reach out to my family, teammates, and friends. It's a humbling moment when you realize you have the opportunity to share lessons learned and can support and encourage others to live the life of their dreams. I see that same sense of wonderment and responsibility in Sanya Richards-Ross on every page of her competitive memoir, Chasing Grace. More than a story about achievement and victory, Sanya's book delivers as a journey of discovery. It is honest and heartfelt, and I believe she openly examines her life's work in the pursuit of helping others live their dreams.'

Angela Simmons

'Chasing Grace is a remarkable story of a young woman who stayed the course to achieve her dreams. Like most success stories, Sanya faced many challenges that not only prepared her for Olympic gold but prepared her for the real race of life. I commend her on having the courage to share her toughest moments, and I know her truth will inspire many.'

four-time Olympian and first American woman to med Lauryn Williams

'Chasing Grace doesn't just give you a look behind the scenes; it invites you into some of Sanya Richards-Ross's most personal moments. Moments fans often don't consider. Sanya's transparency is courageous and beautiful. Her words are eloquent, and the lessons shared are priceless.'

five-time Olympic swimmer and twelve-time medalist Dara Torres

'Sanya Richards-Ross embodies what I consider to be a true American hero. Her ability to overcome obstacles and stay focused on her mission to be not just the best runner in the world but a world-class woman stirs me, and it will challenge and encourage all who read Chasing Grace. I so respect Sanya's journey and recommend her book to anyone looking to be inspired!'

Usain Bolt

'Sanya Richards-Ross has represented Team USA so well for her entire career. But she was born in Jamaica, and I can connect to the winner's spirit that we share. I'm proud of everything Sanya has accomplished, including the writing of Chasing Grace. Through her vulnerability in sharing some of her most personal stories of victory and defeat, triumph and tribulation, I once again see her strength. Big up yuhself, Sanya!'

nine-season NFL cornerback COREY WEBSTER

Chasing Grace embodies the determination needed to fulfill our lifelong dreams. Sanya Richards-Ross has done us all a favor by uniquely sharing her life stories to motivate, inspire, and empower individuals who read it. The 400-meter race is a great metaphor for life. It’s an enduring race. This book is filled with life lessons that will enable the reader to progress from just being ordinary to becoming a true champion on and off the track of life. Grace—unmerited favor of God.

ESTELLE

Chasing Grace is an empowering story of walking in grace and purpose. Sanya Richards-Ross has passion and courage etched in every step throughout her career so far. This is how you do it.

MAX SIEGEL

Sanya Richards-Ross is one of the world’s greatest athletes, but her success isn’t just God-given. She took great talent and made it the best it could be by learning from others, working hard, and leaning on her family and her faith. She has always been about far more than athletic achievement. She has been an advocate and role model and has always taken a global view of her life and career. Chasing Grace provides a look at how she was able to overcome and succeed, both on and off the track.

four-time Olympic medalist and lead track and fiel ATO BOLDON

Chasing Grace gives the reader a glimpse into the mind-set of a rare athlete, Sanya Richards-Ross, who has the holy trinity of skills: the athletic ability to perform and win at the highest level, the poise to deliver a flawless live interview after, and the savvy to know how to build a successful brand from it.

Co-Founder/CEO of 300 Entertainment KEVIN LILES

I just wanted to take the time to say a few words about Sanya’s book. I’ve always admired Sanya’s drive, not just on the track but to become a business woman and use her platform to help others. It’s an honor to mentor a talented and strong young woman like her. I have three daughters and I know life won’t be easy but I hope they handle life’s challenges with as much persistence and fight as Sanya. Chasing Grace is an amazing telling of a wonderful story that should be shared with the world. I couldn’t be prouder.

ANGELA SIMMONS

Chasing Grace is a remarkable story of a young woman who stayed the course to achieve her dreams. Like most success stories, Sanya faced many challenges that not only prepared her for Olympic Gold but prepared her for the real race of life. I commend her on having the courage to share her toughest moments, and I know her truth will inspire many.

four-time Olympian and first American woman to med LAURYN WILLIAMS

Chasing Grace doesn’t just give you a look behind the scenes; it invites you into some of Sanya Richards-Ross’s most personal moments. Moments fans often don’t consider. Sanya’s transparency is courageous and beautiful. Her words are eloquent, and the lessons shared are priceless.

the greatest female athlete of the twentieth centu JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE

Chasing Grace is an excellent read for anyone who is searching for ways to be encouraged and motivated to never give up on pursuing the dream. Sanya Richards-Ross, the five-time Olympic medalist, has illustrated throughout her career patience, perseverance, and perspective on what it takes to become a champion on and off the field with God’s grace. Chasing Grace is the script for a manual that can help guide anyone wanting to be the best. Once you start reading, you will find it difficult to stop turning the pages in the anticipation of wanting more.

USAIN BOLT

Sanya Richards-Ross has represented Team USA so well for her entire career. But she was born in Jamaica, and I can connect to the winner’s spirit that we share. I’m proud of everything Sanya has accomplished, including the writing of Chasing Grace. Through her vulnerability in sharing some of her most personal stories of victory and defeat, triumph and tribulation, I once again see her strength. Big up yuhself, Sanya!

VINCE YOUNG

Sanya Richards-Ross is the definition of a champion on and off the track. Her focus, ambition, and passion were evident dating back to our time at the University of Texas. Chasing Grace is an incredibly inspiring story of how she used her God-given abilities to win gold while ultimately finding her true purpose. I’m proud of the woman she has become and her bravery in sharing her story.

two-time Olympic decathlon gold medalist and world ASHTON EATON

When I was a young athlete, my coaches used to explain what I should aspire to be, and Sanya Richards-Ross was always the standard. Powerful, graceful, caring; physically, mentally, and morally sound. You had to wonder how she came to be. Thankfully we don’t anymore. It’s a pleasure to finally read her operating manual.

author SARAH JAKES ROBERTS

In a world that often defines public achievement as success, Sanya Richards-Ross reveals in Chasing Grace that her greatest feat in life was not on a track for the world to see, but rather in her soul where God would serve as the ultimate coach. She now shares wisdom from the deep reservoir of her pains, joys, trials, and triumphs that will inspire us all to pursue the grace race with confidence, trust, optimism, and unshaken faith.

LAILA ALI

Chasing Grace is not only the story of a young girl who followed her dreams and became an Olympic champion, but also a collection of valuable lessons that were learned along the way. Sanya Richards-Ross has written a wonderful book for those who want to be inspired and uplifted while learning how to successfully handle all the challenges we inevitably face in life.

MICHAEL STRAHAN

I will always say that I am eternally grateful to the game of football—for what it gave me and what it taught me. Through my sport, I learned to reach out to my family, teammates, and friends. It’s a humbling moment when you realize you have the opportunity to share lessons learned and can support and encourage others to live the life of their dreams. I see that same sense of wonderment and responsibility in Sanya Richards-Ross on every page of her competitive memoir, Chasing Grace. More than a story about achievement and victory, Sanya’s book delivers as a journey of discovery. It is honest and heartfelt, and I believe she openly examines her life’s work in the pursuit of helping others live their dreams.

five-time Olympic swimmer and twelve-time medalist DARA TORRES

Sanya Richards-Ross embodies what I consider to be a true American hero. Her ability to overcome obstacles and stay focused on her mission to be not just the best runner in the world but a world-class woman stirs me, and it will challenge and encourage all who read Chasing Grace. I so respect Sanya’s journey and recommend her book to anyone looking to be inspired!

NOVEMBER 2017 - AudioFile

As she humbly shares the lessons she’s learned about track, life, and God, Sanya Richards-Ross encourages listeners to never stop striving to run the good race. Richards-Ross begins her story by inviting listeners into her family’s home in Jamaica, where she is preparing for one of her earliest races. She transitions into each new chapter as she would into the next stretch of a track, and in an earnest tone she explains her strategy for racing and life: push, pace, position, and prayer. Reliving the dedication and decisions that led her from dreaming on a Jamaican middle school track to representing Team USA on an Olympic track, Richards-Ross’s voice remains warm, reminiscent, and confident. This self-read memoir gives listeners the amazing opportunity to experience her journey in a personal way. V.C. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine

Product Details

BN ID: 2940171751913
Publisher: Zondervan
Publication date: 06/06/2017
Edition description: Unabridged
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