How does a man who finished 10th in the Olympics get the title “A Gold Medal Man”? Find out in this small-town story about an amateur athlete who went on to become the second Big 10 Commissioner. “Tug” Wilson was an athlete, yes. But there is more to his story. Vanessa Curry’s biography spotlights this American sports hero who has nearly been lost to history.
Perfect for the sports history fan, Vanessa’s exhaustive research gives illuminating insight into Wilson’s unique contributions to college and Olympic athletics.
Is there a particular moment that SPARKed your interest in writing a book?
As a journalist, I know a good story when I see one. I began researching “Tug” Wilson because I discovered he had grown up in my hometown of Atwood, Illinois. I had never heard of Wilson, despite all of his accomplishments in the world of amateur athletics. After months of research, I realized his story needed to be told, and I was the one who needed to write it.
What surprises did you encounter on the road to writing and publishing the book?
It surprised me that hardly anyone in this small Central Illinois town knew about “Tug” Wilson. Even my father, who grew up in Atwood, had never heard of him. Wilson was nearly lost to our town’s history.
How did SPARK Publications help in championing and publishing your book?
SPARK Publications lead me through the process, providing encouragement at every step along the way. Everything from the cover design using historical photos, editing the manuscript, designing the pages, and they handled the many steps it takes to publish a book.
Now that your book is published, are there any goals or experiences you’re looking forward to?
I realized that my work is not over, it really is just beginning. My goal is to find my niche in a market full of people just like me.
What advice do you have for other authorpreneurs and aspiring writers?
Never give up!
Connect with Vanessa Curry
A Gold Medal Man is published by SPARK Publications
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