Spirit of the Marathon Movie Review & Giveaway

Back in 2008, I watched a screening of Spirit of the Marathon (HERE). The documentary featured six athletes through their training and comnpletion of the Chicago Marathon. Having only run one half marathon and several 5Ks at that point, I still didn't feel like a "runner" and was surrounded by athletes laughing at "inside jokes" and sporting technical gear for a night-out. I had been developing my love for the sport, but still didn't feel like I was 100% a "running groupy". The documentary was moving, gave me goosebumps and inspired me to sign up for the 2008 Chicago Marathon the next morning, my first. Fast forward four years and I've run about 30 half marathons and four full marathons. I am now a "runner". Yes, this movie changed my life!!

I recently signed up for the 2012 Chicago Marathon, before the 45,000 spots sold out in just a few days. I am looking forward to going back to where it all started for me. So, when I was contacted by the producers of the Spirit of the Marathon, I was thrilled to work together to review the movie.

About Spirit of the Marathon:

Four years in the making, Spirit of the Marathon is
the collaborative effort of three-time Academy Award winner Mark Jonathan Harris, Telly Award winner and director/marathoner Jon Dunham and producer/marathoner Gwendolen Twist.

It is the first film to capture the story, drama and ultimate essence of the legendary 26.2 mile running event. Filmed globally in North
America, Europe, Africa and Asia, the movie brings together a diverse cast of amateur athletes and marathon luminaries.

As six unique stories unfold, each runner prepares for and
ultimately faces the challenge of the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports
movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of
perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners
and non-runners alike.

Be sure to watch the moving movie trailer online (HERE).

You can read about all of the athletes (HERE). I enjoyed watching everyone's four month journey through training and 2-6+ hour journey through the marathon itself. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just a beginner, you will thoroughly enjoy this movie. It covers all aspects of training, nutrition, and frustration from Olympians and Couch to 5K runners.

I got goosebumps, again, watching this movie!!! If it hadn't been after 11:00 pm when I finished it, I probably would have hopped on the treadmill! I enjoyed relating to the stories of a couple balancing their life with a young child, both of them marathoners. The comedy of an older gentleman who inspires and amazes folks with every finish line he crosses.

But, my favorite story to follow was Leah. I didn't identify with her story the first time I watched the movie, but now found her story especially touching and could relate as she shed tears and crossed the finish line.

Leah Caille - First-Time Marathoner:
Picking-up the pieces from her crumbled marriage-A period
in which she subsequently lost fitness and gained weight-Leah Caille found herself at an all-time low. Now a single mother to her seven-year-old daughter Adelaide, Leah started on the path to health and happiness by joining Chicago Endurance Sports' "Learn to Run" program. After completing her first 5k, she went on to dramatically improve her fitness, which led to several more successful races before she decided to take on the ultimate challenge by training for and running the Chicago Marathon.

Did you know that Spirit of the Marathon II is in production??

"Spirit of the Marathon II" - the sequal - is now in production! The filme will feature the stores of an entirely new cast of runners from first-time marathoners to the world's elite all running the Rome Marathon!

Their journey takes them through 26.2 miles of Rome's most visually stunning streets and awe inspiring landmarks, including the ancient Colosseum. Many of the world's greates marathon runners will provide commentary during the movie, as you follow each athlete's journey through training and Rome. You will also gain further knowledge of the marathon and how it came to be.

Stay tuned on Running Diva Mom for more information on production, release and showings of Spirit of the Marathon II!!!

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One lucky winner will win

a copy of Spirit of the Marathon

on DVD

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