Running for the B-Team: One man's obsessive quest to run a marathon in under 3 hours

by Mike Bannister

A comical account of the author's long term obsession to try and run a marathon in under 3 hours. This book goes off at lots of tangents to discuss many aspects of running - not just marathon running! The author re-counts his journey, battling against the ageing process and numeous setbacks, determined to crack the 3hr barrier. With an admirable, yet laughable, attention to detail, nothing will stop Mike Bannister repeatedy bouncing back as he refuses to let go of the goal he set himself a third of a life ago. Will he ever complete a marathon in 2-something?

204 pages, Paperback

Published December 12, 2015

Reviews

[Nick Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading 'Running for the B-team' a month ago and loved it! Having read and listened to many other runner's stories (Rich Roll, Scott Jurek, Chris McDougall, Dean Karnazes), it followed that model but emphasised the value of the slog & struggle in a way that other books often don't. It goes to show what hard work can achieve, all with a great comic edge. I also loved hearing about how the community spirit of running helped Mike on the quest for a sub-3, it's so crucial! Nothing keeps me pounding pavement as much as the enjoyment of doing it with mates. Thanks for a great story Mike, you've spurred me on in my quest for sub-3!

[Andy Bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this, it's a fun read. It is non-fiction, which I don't really go for, but it's about a subject I like a lot. It describes brilliantly the obsession of the running enthusiast, which every runner will relate too whatever their level. The story is very well put together and you can really appreciate the journey the reader went on. It also has a very nice level of humour. I do think this book will be enjoyed a lot more by runners, but for anybody it is still a fun read. I would recommend it.