Safety and medical rescue in Formula One have come such a long way, and Sid Watkins has been instrumental in not only initiating and implementing the necessary changes, but also in transforming the way the whole issue of safety was viewed by almost everyone within, as well as outside F1.
Aside from all the serious stuff though and, without a doubt, the outstanding job done by the man, I have to say that the most fun part of the book were the anecdotes from Watkins's personal encounters with countless F1 personalities, his short and witty portraits of the sport's top drivers, his lists of favorite and less favorite circuits, his first hand accounts of all major racing accidents since 1978 when he became actively involved.
Disregarding the fact it's a bit outdated, "Life at the Limit" is also a very sweet and nostalgic book as it takes one back to when Formula One was actually fun, back to when "James Hunt, ever the gentleman, saluted each time he drove into the pits!"...

Viewing Grand Prix motor racing through the wonderfully perceptive eyes of Professor Watkins means that anyone interested in the sport should read this excellent account. Obviously respected, often revered by those with whom he works, he gives vivid and sometimes moving recollections spanning the many years of his involvement. Humour and pathos make regular appearances; his dry wit, an essential tool of his trade perhaps, serves to punctuate what is essentially a serious book. His incisive pr?cis of drivers from the last three decades make for compulsive reading, the character analyses are intriguing and revealing. Undoubtedly a pivotal character in the world of Formula One, the professor has been instrumental in saving many lives. However, he's also witnessed intimately the consequences of appalling accidents in which lives were lost. He is perhaps uniquely qualified to commentate on the sport; his dedication and professionalism making him a hero in this modern amphitheatre which now embraces the globe. Superbly readable. Once is not enough.

Professor Watkins provides his insights into the personalities and events of formula one racing based on over two decades involvement with the sport. He has completed more circuit laps in medical vehicles than some drivers are able to accomplish in their F1 career. His humor, dedication to the sport, and commitment to improving safety standards are reflected in this well written book that should appeal to everyone interested in the human aspect of the F1 circus.

I have never thought that this book could contain such historical moments. I have only followed F1 since 97 and I had a thirst for knowledge. This book has lots of it. Knowledge and feelings. We are brought inside the author's life. I thank him for this book, which I consider a remarkable achievement.

VultureElf 1/8 Irish Proud FOSA member

A fitting testament to Professor Watkins' work in Formula One -- in which he waged a long battle to improve circuit safety and medical care facilities for drivers -- this memoir is filled with both poignant and joyful moments. It starts with the weekend of the San Marino GP in May 1994, where Watkins was told by Ayrton Senna, "Sid, there are certain things over which we have no control. I cannot quit, I have to go on." Covering the deaths of Senna, Gilles Villeneuve, Ronnie Peterson and others by the man who was first on the scene of their accidents, one might expect this to be a maudlin tale of lost glory. But Sid Watkins is not that type of person, and neither is his book.

Professor Watkins has been present during the darkest days in F1 during the last 20 years. In his book he offers his insights into not only the events but also the racing personalities during this period. He also provides his perspective upon the events at Imola in 1994 and his relationship with Ayrton Senna. This book is a welcome additon to the library of anyone interested in F1 during this time period.

Prof Watkins book is a story no racing fan will be able to put down as you get a first-hand account of Grand Prix racing's dangerous side. Dr. Watkins talks from the viewpoint as the first person to arrive at the scene of every on-track incident to occur, from Ronnie Peterson to Gilles Villeneuve, to Ayrton Senna. This is in no way a grim story, but rather one that adds an incredible human side to a sport which often lacks such an element. Much is also learned about the progress made in track safety and procedures over the last two decades of Mr. Watkins reign as Medical Director to F1. A must read!

A complete enlightment to behind the scenes at
grands prix, written by 'The Prof' Sid Watkins
in such a way that you just can't put it down!!
A must for every formula one fan!