November 9, 2006 – As reported by the Journal de Montreal, Louis Garneau, president of the Quebec City-based sportswear company and bike manufacturer of the same name – and former Olympian cyclist – has just launched his biography, Ne jamais abandoner.

The title, which could be translated as “Never Give Up,” was written by Garneau’s former high school French teacher, Henri Marineau. Ne jamais abandoner recounts both Garneau’s cycling and his business exploits. Explaining the choice of the book’s title, Garneau declared, “The title sums up my life. Giving up is not part of my vocabulary, nor will it ever be. It’s alright to take a break sometimes, but not to give up.”

The book recalls how Garneau, now 48, participated in the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, helping team mate Steve Bauer win a silver medal. Garneau had a reputation then for giving it all as demonstrated by finishing a race in 33rd in a field of 163 riders despite a bad fall half-way through.

Garneau’s wife, Monique Arsenault, is also a cyclist and the two met at a competition in 1976. They have three children, including 16-year-old William who has been featured in Pedal news items this summer regarding the Mardis Cyclistes de Lachine races.

Quebec-based website Veloptimum asked Marineau what sort of student Garneau was back in 1973. “He was above average in French class, but he was better in physical education and in arts,” replied Garneau’s former teacher.

Profits from the book will go to a Quebec City charity, Petits frères des pauvres (Little Brothers of the Poor) because, according to Garneau, “Life has spoiled me to date and I want to give to others.” The 300-page book, which is available only in French, is listed on Amazon.ca at a $24.95 before discounts. Louis Garneau Sports is also the publisher.