Why We Kneel How We Rise: WINNER OF THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR PRIZE

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This cookie is used to store a unique identifier to determine the number of unique users for various parts of bbc.co.uk. Following his retirement, the fast bowling legend became a superb commentator, speaking with depth in that droll West Indian accent. He recently quit commentary but at 67, Holding remains a voice of reason. As ever he leans on his dignity. When dinner conversations extended beyond the willow game, he would then say: “Look at what is happening in West Asia.” And when his daughter called from the U.S., he would step aside and become a doting father. After talking about bad experiences by sporting legends and giving us a history lesson, Mikey also shows the way forward. He talks about how education is important, how teaching history which is unbiased and factual and which doesn't sweep the past below the carpet, is important, and how this will help in changing people's minds and help in making our shared future better and more equal for everyone.

We need to re-educate people so that they learn the true history of the world and the true history of mankind, so that they can understand why racism came about and exactly why it has continued."

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The public reaction to his powerful words about racism compelled Holding to write “Why We Kneel, How We Rise” with the help of journalist Ed Hawkins. Alyson Rudd, Chair of Judges, said: “Given everything that has happened in the world over the last 18 months, I am proud the standard of the entries was as strong as ever. Michael’s book was very well written, and brilliantly and evocatively highlights the importance of education in defeating one of society’s biggest issues.” There were so many stories of appalling behaviour by white people (though I want to add a distinction- historically white people of the upper class. Their attitude was in turn taught to ordinary white people) throughout.

The cookie, set by Krux Digital, registers a unique ID that identifies a returning user's device. The ID is used for targeted ads. Infantry Division - war heroes who were made to clean toilets and do menial jobs, instead of being allowed to fight in WW I. Even though the Germans asked them not to fight for the oppressors, the 'Harlem Hellfighters' spent 191 days in the trenches, never lost a single foot of ground, and never had any prisoners taken. Still, they were banned from the victory parades and received nothing. Huh’ ? To tell us that a shot, a delivery or a strategy was very ordinary. And here in this book too, even where emotion is right at the top, Holding’s cadence is perfect as he speaks to us on an even keel.

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I am proud and honoured to receive the iconic William Hill Sport Book of the Year award, and I hope this will help us spread the message of ‘say no to racism’ and importance of learning more about this important topic.” Why We Kneel, How We Rise combines Holding’s own experience of racial abuse along with the stories of some of the most iconic athletes in the world including Usain Bolt, Adam Goodes, Thierry Henry, Michael Johnson, Ibtihaj Muhammad, Makhaya Ntini, Naomi Osaka and Hope Powell.