Dr. Michael Crawley, a sub-2h 20min marathon runner and award-winning author, delves into the meaning of endurance in his latest book, highlighting cultural insights from various running communities. He discusses the Enhanced Games and the ethical dilemmas of doping, revealing stark contrasts in athlete perspectives. Crawley critiques the reliance on wearable tech in training, advocating for a balance with instinct. The conversation challenges stereotypes surrounding Ethiopian runners, emphasizing community and spirit as essential elements in endurance sports.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Connecting with the Rarámuri
Michael Crawley contacted a Harvard anthropologist to connect with the Rarámuri runners.
A research assistant then facilitated access and appeared in Crawley's book.
insights INSIGHT
Rarámuri Running Culture
The Rarámuri view running as a form of prayer and community bonding.
Their races involve music, witch doctors, betting, and a belief that endurance pleases God and brings rain.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Historical Endurance Events
19th-century America saw dance marathons and six-day walking races.
Some states banned these endurance events, forcing participants to cross state lines to continue.
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This book recounts Cathy Freeman's journey from a little girl who loved to run to a world champion athlete. It includes her experiences growing up in a loving family, her relationship with her severely disabled sister who inspired her, and her rise to the top in athletics. The book also touches on the challenges she faced, including racism and personal losses, and how she overcame them through hard work, self-belief, and the support of her family. The narrative is honest and simple, making it relatable to young readers. The book is accompanied by black and white photos, some of which are family shots, adding a personal touch to the story[2][4].
To the Limit
The Meaning of Endurance from Mexico to the Himalayas
Michael Crawley
In 'To the Limit', Michael Crawley delves into the meaning of endurance by recounting his own journeys and challenges. The book covers a range of experiences, from running the length of the Lake District in a day to navigating other demanding terrains. It highlights the joy of collective movement and the deeper significance of pushing human limits.
This week James and Will are joined by Michael Crawley, doctor of anthropology, sub-2h 20min marathon runner and award-winning author. In this episode, we discuss Michael’s latest book, To the Limit, which explores the meaning of endurance – why we do it and what it means to us culturally – through the eyes of Mexican running tribes, fell runners and professional athletes.
We talk about the Enhanced Games – one man’s bid to an all drugs allowed ‘olympic games’; the pros and lamentable cons of sleep tracking and smartwatches; the culture of doping – or not – across the globe; the pitfalls of the biological passport anti-doping system; how community and spirit is just as important as altitude in creating great endurance athletes in places like Ethiopia; and voluptuous panic. You’ll have to listen to find out about that one.
To the Limit: The Meaning of Endurance from Mexico to the Himalayas by Michael Crawley is published by Bloomsbury and available here as well as all good bookshops.
Interview begins at 8.14
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