The Race Within: A Sports Psychology Handbook is a groundbreaking fusion of storytelling and sports psychology that follows the inspiring journey of Ousmane Diallo, a gifted young runner from rural Senegal who dares to chase greatness beyond his village's dusty tracks.
From barefoot sprints on clay roads to national championships and beyond, Ousmane's path is not just marked by physical training but by intense inner battles. Along the way, he meets powerful internal allies-GOAL, DISCIPLINE, EMOTIONAL CONTROL, FOCUS, and MENTAL TOUGHNESS-each representing a core psychological principle essential to athletic and personal growth.
Blending fiction with evidence-based research, the story introduces readers to critical theories like Goal-Setting (Locke & Latham), Grit (Duckworth), Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan), Cognitive Appraisal (Lazarus), and the 4Cs of Mental Toughness (Clough et al.). These are brought to life through rich narrative, relatable challenges, and a culturally grounded setting that resonates far beyond the sports world.
As Ousmane confronts obstacles-self-doubt, jealousy, identity conflict, and the pressure of expectations-readers are invited to witness his development and reflect on their mental resilience. The book includes chapter-by-chapter insights, reflection questions, and tables for academic and coaching use, making it a valuable tool for students, athletes, coaches, educators, and anyone interested in peak performance.
The Race Within is more than a sports novel. It's a psychological roadmap, a motivational mirror, and a celebration of the human spirit. Whether chasing a finish line, a dream, or simply trying to become the best version of yourself, this book shows that the most incredible race is always the one within.
