What about running two marathons every day.... for 80 days straight? That is what Charlie, Kevin, and Ray did as chronicled in the inspirational film, Running the Sahara.
Running the Sahara is a feature documentary narrated and executive produced by Academy Award winner Matt Damon and directed by Academy Award winner James Moll.
This powerful and inspirational film chronicles an attempt by three ultra marathoners to run across the entire length of Africa's Sahara Desert, tackling not only the elements, but also unimaginable physical and emotional obstacles. Their goal is to run across six African countries, anticipating two marathons per day, for eighty days ... without a day off.
Charlie Engle from the United States, Kevin Lin from Taiwan, and Ray Zahab from Canada, have run together in marathons before. But this time is different. This isn't a race. It's a grueling test of will and a chance to accomplish something that no known person has ever achieved.
The films score was produced by Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer, composed by Heitor Pereira, with songs from U2, Pearl Jam and original songs performed by Wyclef Jean and the African Children's Choir.
Coming in the next week there will be four screenings, one of which is in Atlanta (which I will be attending) to corrispond with the ING Georgia Marathon and others in Washington DC, Virginia Beach, and Pasadina, with many more to come. I am very excited to see this film.
What? You say you are not an Ultra Runner? You do not need to be an Ultra Runner to be inspired by this movie. Why not make plans to attend one of the Screenings this Thursday evening in either Atlanta or Washington DC. More information can be found at www.runningthesahara.com or tickets to one of the many screenings can be found by visiting the listing of screenings.
Tim Wilson - blog.262quest.com - subscribe - follow
Someday I'd love to do a trek in the northern Sahara but I can't imagine ever trying to run in that heat. These are ultra-athletes indeed!
ReplyDeleteRay Zahab lives across the river from me in Chelsea, Quebec, definitely an "A" type personality...you should check out their trip to the South Pole...amazing...
ReplyDeletewow there is a showing in my city the day of my first marathon - kind of like a double whammy. Thanks for the post, it's great anytime running gets to the big screen.
ReplyDeleteI'm dying to see this movie. I've heard so much about it.
ReplyDeleteoh, just found your blog. Congrats on the weight loss and the running. Keep up the great work!
Thanks all for stopping by and the comments. I am still waiting for my ticket confirmation, I am hoping I will still be able to go - I am really looking forward to it.
ReplyDeleteThe last running movie I saw was the Spirit of the Marathon, and I am expecting this to be at least as inspiring as that movie was. There is something about being in a theater with a bunch of runners.