The Ration Book Olympics

In this audiobook, Clare Balding explores the unique circumstances of the 1948 Olympics, held in a post-war Britain still grappling with austerity and the remnants of conflict. As rationing persisted and new sports facilities were unattainable, the Games took place in schools and RAF camps, yet surprisingly ended up being profitable and successful. Balding interviews notable athletes such as cyclist Tommy Godwin and silver medalist Dorothy Manley, alongside Roger Bannister, who played a key role in the opening ceremony, while also featuring captivating archival voices like Dutch sprinter Fanny Blankers-Koen, a four-time gold medalist.