The World's Longest Footrace

My friend Grahak Cunningham asked if I would mention his latest project on this blog.  When Grahak said the book is designed to inspire non-runners and runners alike, it was a no-brainer.

Grahak, it would be my honor.  I'll now turn it over to Grahak...

I want to introduce you to a new ebook: Running Beyond the Marathon: insights into the longest footrace in the world.

Founded in 1997 to exemplify the endless possibilities of the human spirit, the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race is held every year on a concrete footpath around an 883-meter block in Queens, New York. It is the world ’s longest certified foot race.

Running 18 hours a day, from 6:00am to midnight, for 51 days, runners must average a minimum of 60 miles a day (96.6 km) to complete the distance. This involves circumnavigating the block 5,649 times. Over the duration of the race, runners wear out fifteen pairs of shoes and their feet swell an extra two sizes. In a typical New York summer, temperatures can reach 40 degrees centigrade with 85% humidity. Competitors must contend with boredom, fatigue, torrential deluges, extreme pain, injuries and sleep deprivation —but most of all, they have to deal with themselves. Outwardly for their efforts they will receive a plastic trophy and a t-shirt; but they make a lifetime of progress.

Loaded with training tips, anecdotes and race stories, join four-time finisher, West Australian Grahak Cunningham as he takes you on the journey from his first race in 2007 as a multiday novice to his ultimate victory in 2012 where he averaged 71 miles (114km) a day for 43 days, and discover what he learnt along the way. 

Available from www.grahakcunningham.com, Smashwords or Amazon.