Well, I don't think I have ever not made money in the first year. In fact, I generally make money in the first one to two weeks.
But, I guess what they mean is that entrepreneurs generally reinvest as much money as possible into expanding their businesses in the first year. To be honest, I think this continues well into the 3rd or 4th year.
The speed of profitability is really going to be dependant on the industry and competitive environment you find yourself in.