'Born to Run' Author Inspires Community

An enrapt audience of about two dozen people listened to author Christopher McDougall discuss his best-selling book Born to Run in the community room Thursday evening.

McDougall's book tells the tale of his personal search for the illusive Tarahumara Indians and their ability to run hundreds of miles without rest or injury. 

"The only thing we're genetically good at is running," McDougall told the audience. "We're not strong, we can't fly, but we what we can do is move [our legs] really well ... We need to learn how to make running fun again."

McDougall said that the public has been unnecessarily frightened by marketing ploys which warn us about running injuries and the need for specially constructed running shoes.

McDougall has become famous for his barefoot running or the wearing of huaraches, flat rubber running sandals worn by the Tarahumara tribe.

Following the talk, McDougall signed copies of his book and met with members of the community.

Though not a runner, Councilmember Illece Buckley Weber said she took away an important message from the book. "I loved the spirituality it presents ... about living in the moment ... It's a lot like yoga," she said. "Also, I have a bad ankle, so I'm going to try walking barefoot more often to see if that makes a difference."