Raider - by Jon Gower (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A gripping portrait of an American football legend whose impact stretched far beyond the game.

From the electrifying fields of Morgan State to the roaring stadiums of the NFL, Raymond Chester's journey is one of triumph and resilience. As America reeled in the wake of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Chester was at the forefront of Black athletes breaking into the mainstream, reshaping the face of professional American football.

Raider brings his extraordinary story to life through extensive conversations with Welsh author and rugby fan Jon Gower, offering a rare, intimate look at the man behind the legend. More than just a chronicle of athletic greatness, this book is a testament to Chester's lasting influence--on the game, on representation, and on generations to come.

A must-read for sports fans everywhere, Raider is both a celebration of an icon and a heartfelt tribute from Wales to one of football's true pioneers.

Review Quotes

"The story captured by JG is accidental, in the best sense, and would not have been written but for the random encounters of a Welshman with a pen."-- "Nation.Cymru"

"Raymond personified what it meant to be a professional athlete - possessed of an incredible work ethic, very smart and committed to excellence. Almost 50 years later we continue to have our bond as brothers, and he continues to offer a wealth of knowledge and be a great resource. More importantly, he is 'Big Brother'."-- "Derrick Ramsey, tight end, Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, 1978-1983"

"Raymond Chester, a man's man, a mentor, was and is still my Hero today. When I was a rookie in 1980 he showed me love - always a strong man, a smart man, willing to help everyone.

Raymond showed young black men how to be committed professionals both on and off the field. After you talk to him for five or fifty minutes, you feel smarter for his sharing his wisdom with you. I love Raymond for always standing up to the system and making Black men proud."-- "Frank Hawkins, running back, Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, 1981-1987"

"The 1970s was the beginning of an era and breed of taller, faster tight ends. Ones who could run. Raymond was perhaps the most feared...big, rugged and physical, he combined size, strength, speed, quickness, moves, great hands and athleticism better than any of them. The tight ends of the 50s and 60s, once considered a third tackle, and a position of big, slow, lumbering linemen, was parlayed by the Raiders' Raymond Chester into one of grace and speed. Raymond revolutionized the tight end position."-- "Danny Jones in Heroes of Yesteryear: Pro Football's Dying Breed of Players from a Bygone Era)"

About the Author

Jon Gower is a former BBC Wales arts and media correspondent and the author of over forty books. His works include The Story of Wales and Y Storïwr.