Runners: If you haven't seen Running the Sahara, it's time to watch one of the most inspirational running movies of this decade.
The documentary (narrated by Matt Damon) is about three runners (Charlie Engle, Ray Zahab and Kevin Lin) that decide to do the unthinkable - run across the Sahara Desert. The expedition begins on the sands in Mauritania and ends at the Nile River. The distance in between the two coasts is filled with one of the most amazing journeys you'll ever see. Their are times when the runners seem to be living in the clouds, and other times when they are just about ready to quit and go home.
Amazingly, the runners run about 50 miles a day, averaging around 10 minute miles. The desert's heat requires them to run in the morning, evenings, and even through the night. They are faced with wild sandstorms, dehydration, painful injuries and even immigration problems during the run, which they manage to overcome in the end, as all three runners make it across an unforgiving land mass and accomplish the unthinkable.
Among the three runners, only one of them began their life as a competitive runner, the other two had drinking and/or drug problems, and turned to running in order to change their lives. They are both now involved with some amazing adventures, including running across the United States and other intense athletic missions.
There are screenings of the movie around the country, and many include a Q&A with one of the runners following the film. So next time you are preparing for a race, give this movie a try - you'll love it and find yourself inspired!
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