Review and Synopsis of Born To Run

Born to Run was Written by Christopher McDougall and published in 2009. McDougall writes that he is on assignment for Runner's World magazine, and that is why he started his search for the Tarahumara tribe that lead him to a relationship with Caballo Blanco. 

Before reading this book I had never given trail running a though, I have only been running on roads for 11 months, but after reading this I was encouraged to branch out and hit the grass, rocks, and dirt; I jumped off the pavement during a long 9 mile run and ran trail for about 3 miles. The shade of the trees was cool, the soft dirt comforted my feet , and I can not wait to do it again.

When I started running my goal was to run a marathon. I am currently working on that. the book provides tops on how to become an efficient runner; stride, pace, and strategy. Since running is more than just strength and endurance, it is a mind game, strategy is very important. This book is intriguing, describing the running and the hunting strategies of "The Running People." Reclusive Tribes that live in mountains, canyons, and wilderness.

The Timeline of Caballo planning the 50 mile ultra-marathon starts with the author searching for Caballo Blanco. The White Horse is reclusive and an insider of the Tarahumara tribe. He lives outdoors, running through the canyons. Reading this we learn about his personal experiences with the Tarahumara and his dream of hosting the one time 50 mile ultra-marathon that pits the Tarahumas against some of the top ultra-marathoners such as Scott Jurek. This race would be the race of champions.

If you are a fan of strong female runners this book is for you. you will read about Ann Trason, Olympic distance runner from the 80's. You will read about the similarities between wild college lifeguard and runner Jenn Shelton. The Tarahumara called both of these women Bruja (which means witch) 15 years apart.

If you have ever been told you heel strike, or pro-nate; kick off your shoes, run through the grass, these movements are very normal and we have spent a lot of time correcting them. Just run Free, we were born to Run without anything holding us back.

Some of my favorite discussions of this book were questions like "Are we great and Run, or are we great because we Run?" To Become a better runner this book suggests 5 points;
1. Loosen Grip on Own Desires
2.Appreciate what you got
3.Be patient
4.Forgiving
5.Undemanding




The Last thing I would say for myself, and maybe this book helped me realize it, Running improves my happiness, Running makes me run better.

Louisville Area Race Calendar June - December 2013

June 15 Freedom Fest 5k
June 22 Today is the Day 5k (Active.com)
June 22 Waterfront Challenge
June 29 Indatus 5k Run (Active.com)

July 4 Usa Cares Heroes Run ( Headfirst Performance)
July 13/14 Cardinal Triathalon
July 27 Lame Duck Triathalon

August 17 The Gauntlet

September 2 Four De Lis Classics 10k
September 21 Pure Tap 5k
September 28 Stop the Traffic 5k
September 28 USA Cares Run for Life

October 12 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
october 19 Great Pumpkin at the Parklands
October 19 Four De Lis Classics Fall Trail 5k
October 20 Dream Factory Marathon
October 26 Big Hit 1/2 Marathon

November 29 Four De Lis Classics Run Run Rudolph

December 21 Sweaty Sheep 5k

Crossfit, Running, BonVoyage

This afternoon I went on my run hoping that maybe it would make my mood a little better, it did. Then I had to take the fastest shower of my life and head south to a party for my little brother, he has enlisted in the US NAVY!

I Just got back from the party, and since it is raining here in KY, we ended up going to a Buffet Restaurant. My worst nightmare. I had a salad with spinach, arugula, and veggie and sesame seed, go for the clear dressing (Italian, they did not have balsamic), then a piece of roast beef, sweet potatoes, and beans. While they cut a cake with my brothers picture on it, I passed and had fruit. Drank Lots of water. My little brother reports tomorrow and boards a plane for the Great lakes Naval Boot camp on Monday.

I am so Proud of My little brother he is beginning a journey in his life, it makes my running journey seem miniscule, but it is still important to me.  

I began a training schedule for my Full marathon this week. I am just going to try to make this training fun and incorporate CrossFit into it. Anyone watching the CrossFit The CrossFit Games today? I was watching the CrossFit Games - North East Regional ladies on the 100's and wow! That looked hard! Since My son is out of town visiting my husband's parents and brothers I took advantage last night and went to a CrossFit Competition of my own. it was a small local competition and great for my first experience. There were 2 events.

Event 1 Jackie 15 minute time cap
1000 meter Row
50 Thrusters 45 pound bar
30 Pull Ups

Event 2 12 minute time cap
21-15-9
Deadlift/Box Jumps (F 205/24) (M 315/30)

Okay so I need a Band for assitance when i do Pullups, i only got 21 pullups.
Event 2 I only did 125 pound Deadlift and then I killed the time with 7:40. 

It was really fun. I love being athletic and making new friends and acquaintances that also enjoy my interests, I feel like I am progressing each day and that as soon as I learn to Kip a pullup I am going to try again with that "Jackie" and also as i keep getting stronger and better i will try both events again.