Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen
by Christopher Mcdougall
Christopher McDougall opens the world of ultramarathoning. I enjoy running and one day want to run a marathon. (That will have to wait until all my children are in school. It’s too much of a time commitment right now.) That said I believe this book is not only for people addicted to running. It is a fascinating, intimate look at the athletes in the forefront of the ultra-running world. McDougall takes the reader on a journey through running shoe history, sports medicine, and human physiology in an intriguing, upclose manner. He weaves together, science, technology, and human experience culminating in “the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen”.
It is not a how to manual of any sort. McDougall brushes over techniques used by ultra-athletes keeping his focus on the athletes’ stories. Vivid personalities are brought to life in his tales of Barefoot Ted, Ann Trason, Jenn, and Billy. His depiction of the Tarahumara and Caballo Blanco unveil a culture with a quiet strength struggling to lead a simpler life as outside society encroaches. McDougall skillfully entwines science and medicine with human experience always keeping the story at the forefront. The reader learns a little and is entertained all along the way. A very enjoyable read.
Hopefully I’ll get a recipe posted tomorrow. I have to (meaning Nate has to) reconfigure my Photoshop settings that were lost in last week’s computer crash.
Hi Kate, It was fun to find your blogsite this morning (actually I was just looking for a BBQ meatball recipe, which I am trying now – thanks!!). I, too, am mother to five little ones – all 8ys and younger. I also love cooking, country living (though I am transplanted to the city right now), and running. I’ve struggled lately w/ running…was just starting to train for a half marathon when I mysteriously injured my ankle (no idea what is wrong, but I am scarcely able to walk…though I did noticce that it’s feeling a little better). Anyway, it’s neat to find your site. Best to you and yours! – Olivia
Olivia, Welcome! It’s so fun to connect with another mother of five, though I have to say you are a bit busier than I with the all under 8! Sorry to hear about your ankle. Injuries are so frustrating! I hope it gets better soon and you are able to resume training. Stop by anytime! (oh, and I hope the BBQ Meatballs work for you.)