They are not AR they are real men check out this book
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Feet-Clouds-Tale-Fell-Runn...
I have a hard copy already!
I just finished 'Joss' by Keith Richardson too. Seems my style of race gear comes out of his repertoire. Sounds like he was a machine, and as much of a nutter as tRicky.
I really like Feet in the Clouds as the guy is a weekend warrior whereas Joss Naylor is a true elite even if somewhat modest and still a sheep farmer - I know where I can relate!