Part memoir, part guide, part exploration of a little-known sporting culture, The Race Against Time is a reportage-based study of a remarkable modern phenomenon: runners who pursue their sport far into old age. Described by The Observer as "inspirational", it tells a story of cold science and heart-warming resilience; of champions and also-rans; of sprinting centenarians and forty-something super-athletes barely touched by age. Its heroes are experts and enthusiasts – scientists, coaches, runners – from many countries, each with a different story to tell. What unites them is a single belief: that you don’t have to take growing old lying down.

An award-winning author with over 40 years’ experience in journalism and a large following among running enthusiasts, Richard Askwith describes the book as "a journey from despair to hope" and "a book for anyone who has felt the healing power of running".