The Reason I Run: How Two Men Transformed Tragedy into the Greatest Race of Their Lives

by Chris Spriggs

How do people come together when tragedy tries to tear them apart? When 39-time marathon runner Andrew Spriggs was diagnosed with motor neurone disease he knew his running days were over. But a surprise message from his nephew Chris, offering to push him in his rickety wheelchair in one last marathon, reunites them in a race against time. Rich with insights and inspiration, personal discoveries and unforgettable encounters, 'The Reason I Run' is an astonishing story that will make you laugh, weep and wonder. Join Chris on an incredible journey that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

182 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 11, 2015

Reviews

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this. Definitely feeling inspired for my forthcoming half mars

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review
The Reason I Run by Chris Spriggs is a book about running a marathon but in reality it is so much more, it is the greatest race of transforming lives. Chris starting running late in life and as he ran more he looked more to his Uncle Andrew as an inspiration. Uncle Andrew was an avid runner who had a huge list full of advice. The book is full of passion, love, and humor, which results in inspiration.

Uncle Andrew was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), or for Americans it is known as ALS.. It not only shocked Andrew, but also anyone who knew him. Slowly the disease took Uncle Andrew's capabilities of performing daily tasks that once were taken for granted. Running was one of those tasks. Uncle Andrew was Chris' favorite uncle, so he decided to run one last marathon. This was not simply Chris running a marathon, this was Chris running while pushing Uncle Andrew. Before Chris embarked on his adventure he asked for Andrew's permission and approval.

Chris conducted research in order to prepare for the marathon training and running with a wheelchair. In the process he tracks down Mick n Phil. They are a father and son team who have competed in at least 12 marathons. The father, Mick, pushes Phil, the son who has cerebral palsy, throughout the races. Chris was able to meet and talk with Mick to learn tips about running form as it pertains to pushing a wheelchair. Chris is able to put the tips into practice. Chris and Andrew become a team enjoying the adventure, wherever it takes them.

The Reason I Run is an inspiring read for runners, non-runners, and future runners. If you have forgotten why you run, Chris and Uncle Andrew can help you find a reason.

I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly loved this book! Not 5 stars perhaps but again it comes down to my continual problem: am I rating their life or am I rating the presentation in the book? I loved hearing about Chris and his Uncle Andrew and how they both ran marathons and when Andrew got sick Chris came up with the crazy idea to push him through one last marathon. I loved reading their individual stories and learning about motor neurone disease. Well, didn't love learning about people becoming physically disabled but I enjoyed getting to know Chris and his Uncle. While by the time the book ended everything had come together, during the book it sometimes felt a tad disjointed. There were several side trips that seemed a bit forced, like perhaps because the story wasn't long enough to begin with. Other than that, I had one unanswered question: why didn't Chris and Andrew get a running chair? I asked Mr. Spriggs via Twitter and found out that his Uncle was concerned about using something he was familiar with and "perhaps there was also something about the ridiculous romantic idea of just using a very basic wheelchair." I wish that discussion had been in the book. I will be sure to mention it to everyone I recommend this book to: anyone interested in running, the human spirit, family, etc.

A preview copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Trafalgar Square Publishing in exchange for an objective review.

[Nik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely one of my all time favourite books- written with such joy, humour, sadness & honesty.