Friday, May 30, 2008

In the Midst of Giants


Last night, I squeezed in a quick 4-mile run after work before rushing up to the Paloma Theatre in Encinitas for the first public viewing of Ultramarathon Man, a documentary of Dean Karnazes by JB Benna (coming soon to a theater near you). If I haven't said it before, I'll say it again--I am SO lucky to live in San Diego!

The documentary focused on Dean Karnazes recent accomplishment of completing 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. It also highlighted his efforts to motivate and inspire average, everday sedentary folk to get off the couch and get active. He spends a lot of time speaking and running with children at schools to illustrate the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle. Because my career focuses on cardiovascular research, this struck a chord with me. Obesity is a serious problem in our country.

http://www.ultramarathonman.com/flash/

The best part was that Dean (and his producer JB) were actually there, eager to answer questions! He had a light and energy about him that was infectious. He clearly loves running and sharing his passion with others. He was very inspiring. I understand now why he was voted as one of the nation's most influential people (Time).

David Goggins (another world-famous ultra-marathoner; Badwater, anyone?) also made a guest appearance. He was amongst us mere mortals, watching the documentary.

David Goggins

Living in San Diego affords me the most incredible opportunities. I walk amongst giants, and they all inspire me. The seed has now been planted in my brain. Like a stubborn weed, it grows, and I can't seem to eliminate it from existence. I want to do an ultra.....

6 comments:

Wes said...

Very cool :-) 09 is my "Year of the Ultra"! I think I'll just start with a 50K though. 50 miles would probably kill me!!

jameson said...

yeah... last night was pretty killer and an "only in San Diego" kind of thing. we are lucky.

Kevin said...

Thats awesome. I read his book and his story is amazing. I cant wait till the movie gets released

triguyjt said...

dean is very inspiring.....
read his book 2 times.. look forward to the movie....
and goggins......guy looks like he's ripped and he just goes and goes and goes....

yes..san diego must really suck ;)

Dave said...

I like the utlra business. It is in the long term plan for me too. Chicago feels like san diego this week, but of course we have been waiting for it for months.

RunBubbaRun said...

Dang, you are so lucky. In my 100 mile ultra this year, I saw Goggins run around breaking the 150mile record. That man is a beast..

Dean is very inspiring, he got me into ultrarunning..