I was checking through the Phillyfit library (donated books and magazines from members) 2 weeks ago and Pete recommended I try "Utramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner" by Dean Karnazes. Pete said he thought I might enjoy it. I admit that I had my doubts. I can just about finish a marathon and here was a book about someone who doesn't even blink until he's completed 3 or 4 IN A ROW!
I was really pleased with the book. I expected to be intimidated reading about someone who can run 200 miles at one time. Instead I chuckled a lot and in a couple of places laughed out loud. Instead of egotistical, I found the book to be about a love of running. Sure Mr. Karnazes pushes the envelope on endurance, but let's face it he can.... so why shouldn't he.
As I read about Mr. Karnazes accomplishments in the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, the Badwater Ultramarathon, and The Relay ( 200 mile race typically run in teams of 12 that he ran alone) I felt renewed desire to keep running. It's hard to explain the feeling really. I guess what really happened is I was reminded of why I run. Because I want to, and because I can. I like the feeling of accomplishment. It's a puzzle that keeps changing; every time I go out, even if the route or the miles are the same as something I've done before it's never exactly the same; never boring.
The book captured for me, the essence of distance running. It didn't talk down to me. It motivated me to not give up the idea of changing my full marathon to a half in November. :)
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