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Broken Open: Mountains, Demons, Treadmills And a Search for Nirvana
David Clark is a formerly obese alcoholic and fast food junkie who found a new life in running. Now, thirteen years after his transformation, he shares his inspiring story of taking running to the extreme edge of his physical and spiritual breaking points. Having run more than a hundred races, including the Leadville 100-Mile Trail Run and the Hardrock 100, David has achieved unimaginable success in the ultramarathon world, considering his humble start. From barely finishing his first 5k to running 100 miles in less than eighteen hours, David shatters the notion that the front of the pack is a birthright.Among his many outlandish adventures, David talks about doing ten epic events in one year to celebrate his tenth year of sobriety. This mind-bending year of running included running the Boston Marathon four times in one day, running 343 laps around a high school track and running 48 hours on a treadmill. You will feel like you are running alongside him as he navigates his vision quest—all the while hallucinating and breaking from reality in one of the most epic Badwater 135 race experiences ever told. David’s story is raw, honest and pure adrenaline-laden inspiration as he shares his unique brand of Americana and Heavy Metal Buddhism. This book has far more to offer and than just miles travelled and mountains climbed. It's about trying to find a way station of balance somewhere in a world of extremes. It’s about running to create a legacy and develop your own inner strengths. After reading Broken Open, you’ll never doubt how strong you can be, how much you can endure, or whether or not you are capable of finding true happiness.
406 pages, Paperback
Published February 22, 2019
299 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
David Clark
3 books1 followerLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.
David Clark lives just outside of Boulder, CO. He is a father of three, an accomplished endurance athlete, a practicing Buddhist and die-hard New York Rangers Fan. He is the author of the bestselling book Out There: A Story of Ultra Recovery, and is the host of The WeAreSuperman Podcast. He is also the admissions director for Mountain Peak Recovery. David has been sober since 2005.
David has been featured on CBS, ABC, ESPN, Runners World, Men's Health and many other national media outlets. Amongst his many athletic accomplishments he ran the Boston Marathon four times in one day, 48 hours non-stop on a treadmill and has completed some of the toughest endurance races on the planet.
David Clark lives just outside of Boulder, CO. He is a father of three, an accomplished endurance athlete, a practicing Buddhist and die-hard New York Rangers Fan. He is the author of the bestselling book Out There: A Story of Ultra Recovery, and is the host of The WeAreSuperman Podcast. He is also the admissions director for Mountain Peak Recovery. David has been sober since 2005.
David has been featured on CBS, ABC, ESPN, Runners World, Men's Health and many other national media outlets. Amongst his many athletic accomplishments he ran the Boston Marathon four times in one day, 48 hours non-stop on a treadmill and has completed some of the toughest endurance races on the planet.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 15, 2019
There was so much truth in the last two chapters of this book. I had to read them slowly just to get my head around them. A must read for endurance athletes and thrill seekers of all kinds. Great lessons and reminders. A lot of truth.
March 30, 2019
A former drunk obese addict who became a phenomenal sober and clean athlete. I am sober myself and he has given me inspiration to move on with life.
One Day at a Time....
One Day at a Time....
March 2, 2019
David has a writing style that allows you feel like you’re right there with him...not just during the struggles of an athletic event...but during the ups and downs of life. His perception of life...and of the world...is described in a way that could be called life-altering. Truly incredible...especially the last 10 pages...made me rethink how I was viewing life.
December 20, 2023
“I tried to conquer the world and I lost myself. I tried to conquer myself and I found the entire world.”
I love running 🥲 skimmed through the couple political chapters but I see why it was part of his overall story. Would definitely recommend if you’re a runner
I love running 🥲 skimmed through the couple political chapters but I see why it was part of his overall story. Would definitely recommend if you’re a runner
April 30, 2025
Some of the chapters were SO good and others were just… not. If it wasn’t a book about not giving up I would have given up.. hahah truly a resilient human with a wild story. Would have been perfect in a podcast length episode.
May 11, 2020
Worth the read, honest and decent memoir.
I got this book free on a promo on David's shared Facebook post and I was intrigued. I'm not an ultra runner, so I wasn't familiar with a lot of the names and the races. Needless to say, I learned quite a bit.
I found it very similar to Rich Roll's book, Finding Ultra. Low and behold, I was glad to see they're pals.
I found David Clark's writing style to be pretty casual, with the odd gem. A good example is how he contrasts between the warrior and the monk. It's definately something I'll think about when I run.
Some of the humor he uses is dark. I can see that causing some stir with other readers, but I personally found it probably made his writing speak more genuinely about him.
Overall, worth the read if you enjoy running memoirs.
I got this book free on a promo on David's shared Facebook post and I was intrigued. I'm not an ultra runner, so I wasn't familiar with a lot of the names and the races. Needless to say, I learned quite a bit.
I found it very similar to Rich Roll's book, Finding Ultra. Low and behold, I was glad to see they're pals.
I found David Clark's writing style to be pretty casual, with the odd gem. A good example is how he contrasts between the warrior and the monk. It's definately something I'll think about when I run.
Some of the humor he uses is dark. I can see that causing some stir with other readers, but I personally found it probably made his writing speak more genuinely about him.
Overall, worth the read if you enjoy running memoirs.
August 30, 2020
It took me awhile to get through the book. I took a few breaks. But, in the end, I’m glad I made it to the end.
RIP David Clark
RIP David Clark
March 9, 2019
Torn with this one. At times I wanted to give it 2 stars. I thought it needed editing and was a bit all over the place but in the end I thought it inspired me to pursue my passions and not to live in fear.. so gave it 4 stars.
January 10, 2020
So there were definitely things I did not like about this book. For instance, I did not always appreciate the author's sense of humor - some comments were too coarse/offensive for me (like a comment about Stephen Hawking). I also wasn't thrilled with the narrative arc the book was following - I would occasionally find myself lost, confused about what event he was describing and when it was taking place. I was listening to the audio version of the book so that may have contributed to my mind wandering. Finally, there were times when the author came on too strong. It just seemed like too much.
Having laid out those criticisms, let me tell you what I did like. There is a powerful, inspirational story underlying this book. I personally like the idea of running as part of a spiritual quest for healing. I am also intrigued by every ultra runner's embrace of suffering and in this case where that leads.
Ultimately, I upped my rating because of the parts of the book that I appreciated.
Having laid out those criticisms, let me tell you what I did like. There is a powerful, inspirational story underlying this book. I personally like the idea of running as part of a spiritual quest for healing. I am also intrigued by every ultra runner's embrace of suffering and in this case where that leads.
Ultimately, I upped my rating because of the parts of the book that I appreciated.
June 27, 2021
Meh
I've read this story. I'm sure you have too. Addict, finds a strong reason to recover, finds running and takes it really far. Check, I adore Rich Roll and his wisdom has kept me going many a time (let me clarify: I am not an ultra anything, just a mere mortal who runs). This book was a tough read. David Clark is not a writer and should've had some assistance in crafting his narrative. The story he told got old quick because it was repetitive. One reason I love Dean Karnazes, Scott Jurek, Rich Roll, even Goggins, bc because they create a story with a point. They make it exciting. Everything they tell adds and leads to that point and drives it home. Clark tried to do that, I'll give him that but he often added things that more told you how amazing he was as a runner or a person or a dad but added nothing to the story or point. Every race he ran began with how great of shape he was in but inevitably something went against him. But in a way that got old quick. I get that that's life and the biographies we read are often embellished or told in a way to turn them into a story. But that's for good reason. This book meandered in a very narcissistic way. David Clark achieved the impossible many times, there is no denying he was a very strong, solid human who worked hard to be self aware and find his way and then share it to help and inspire others. Losing him was a loss to many and it's very sad. But this book ain't it. I haven't even read Out There and have no desire. I would've rather met him than read this. Read Rich Roll or Scott Jurek or Goggins. Find your inspiration there. They're true story tellers. Read Clark's Runners World articles - those are a far better read. Skip this one. And if I'm to understand the reviews of his other book, skip that too.
I've read this story. I'm sure you have too. Addict, finds a strong reason to recover, finds running and takes it really far. Check, I adore Rich Roll and his wisdom has kept me going many a time (let me clarify: I am not an ultra anything, just a mere mortal who runs). This book was a tough read. David Clark is not a writer and should've had some assistance in crafting his narrative. The story he told got old quick because it was repetitive. One reason I love Dean Karnazes, Scott Jurek, Rich Roll, even Goggins, bc because they create a story with a point. They make it exciting. Everything they tell adds and leads to that point and drives it home. Clark tried to do that, I'll give him that but he often added things that more told you how amazing he was as a runner or a person or a dad but added nothing to the story or point. Every race he ran began with how great of shape he was in but inevitably something went against him. But in a way that got old quick. I get that that's life and the biographies we read are often embellished or told in a way to turn them into a story. But that's for good reason. This book meandered in a very narcissistic way. David Clark achieved the impossible many times, there is no denying he was a very strong, solid human who worked hard to be self aware and find his way and then share it to help and inspire others. Losing him was a loss to many and it's very sad. But this book ain't it. I haven't even read Out There and have no desire. I would've rather met him than read this. Read Rich Roll or Scott Jurek or Goggins. Find your inspiration there. They're true story tellers. Read Clark's Runners World articles - those are a far better read. Skip this one. And if I'm to understand the reviews of his other book, skip that too.
July 22, 2020
A story about an ultra-runner, who overcame all of the obstacles literally and figuratively. It is always interesting to read about a journey that is not an easy one. In this case, he was an alcoholic and overweight person and one day decided to try running.
I am so inspired in so many ways, I am even considering running an ultra in my 40s and maybe try again to be vegan for a month to see how I will do.
Even though, overall it was a good book, in some parts I was bored, but that’s more on me than on him.
If you love running this book might interest you, I don’t know about the people who are not into marathons or ultras.
I am so inspired in so many ways, I am even considering running an ultra in my 40s and maybe try again to be vegan for a month to see how I will do.
Even though, overall it was a good book, in some parts I was bored, but that’s more on me than on him.
If you love running this book might interest you, I don’t know about the people who are not into marathons or ultras.
July 16, 2019
Great Read
The transformation that David undertakes is epic and a wonderful testimony to the capability of the human spirit.
David has a candid writing style that had me laughing at times that weren't meant to be funny. An example was his description of feeling so much pain during a race that his balls had a heart beat.
My personal favourite was the chapter where he introduces the reader to Desmond. I'm not going to spoil it for you.
I really enjoyed this autobiography.
The transformation that David undertakes is epic and a wonderful testimony to the capability of the human spirit.
David has a candid writing style that had me laughing at times that weren't meant to be funny. An example was his description of feeling so much pain during a race that his balls had a heart beat.
My personal favourite was the chapter where he introduces the reader to Desmond. I'm not going to spoil it for you.
I really enjoyed this autobiography.
November 20, 2020
This was a very touching story and somehow felt extremely honest to the point where I actually had tears in my eyes several times during the book. The writing and the performance made an enjoyable listen and put me into an almost meditative state. And while I listened David Clark facing his demons, I think I could relate to many on some level and also face mine, admire his resilience and ability to take in everything. And even though this is not a self-improvement or self-help book, I felt that it did the job for me as such without trying to, without preaching or pushing anything.
January 30, 2020
David is inspiration to all of those in the world of addiction and recovery. His story of going from a man that weighed 320 pounds and was addicted to alcohol and opioids to an extraordinary vegan fueled athlete that once ran the Boston Marathon not once, but four times consecutively in one day. I highly recommend listening to his story on audio to get the full emotion of his journey told with his own voice.
May 14, 2021
Looko g back on this book. He is honest. You learn no running tips but you learn how Clarke saw the world. He lived his most honest life to him and that is the reflection of the book. Addict to recoved addict or addict to buddhist. The end of the book is great. I stopped to check his death, a few short years later duri g a surgery, and this book is an excellent memoire for his kids to really SEE him. After I finished the book I wondered if he knew. .. .
November 20, 2021
How exactly David's first book was a number 1 Amazon bestseller is a complete and total mystery for me. It is rare for me to dislike a book, but that one (Out There) was one of those books.
This book is the complete opposite - revealing, inspiring, will make you want to root for the guy every single page.
The difference between the books? Humbleness and realizing what's important in life. That's why the styles are complete opposites.
This book is the complete opposite - revealing, inspiring, will make you want to root for the guy every single page.
The difference between the books? Humbleness and realizing what's important in life. That's why the styles are complete opposites.
February 9, 2020
An epic journey of self discovery through running
A good book on self discovery through running and David’s ultimate discovery of the pathway to balance and peace. A must read for all those recovering from alcohol and drug abuse and also for those finding meaning for their running.
A good book on self discovery through running and David’s ultimate discovery of the pathway to balance and peace. A must read for all those recovering from alcohol and drug abuse and also for those finding meaning for their running.
December 21, 2020
I started reading this book after hearing the sad news that David Clark passed away. As an endurance runner with mental health problems, I can relate a lot to his feelings and struggles. I especially liked the last chapter of the book, where he admitted that running had become another form of addiction. He is not a great writer, but very honest and open.
August 4, 2021
Great book on the power of finding inner peace and recovery
Great book that I believe anyone struggling with sobriety and there family should read. The book explained the inner demons that addicts face in a way that many people may be able to understand. Also was funny and showed the power of the mind. Great book.
Great book that I believe anyone struggling with sobriety and there family should read. The book explained the inner demons that addicts face in a way that many people may be able to understand. Also was funny and showed the power of the mind. Great book.
May 30, 2022
DNF at chapter 8. If this is the “new and improved” author, I would hate to know what he was like before his transformation.
The book is filled with borderline offensive slurs and language. Clearly he’s still very self absorbed. I’m a narcissistic ultra runner but I don’t make people read way too long books about my accomplishments and failures.
The book is filled with borderline offensive slurs and language. Clearly he’s still very self absorbed. I’m a narcissistic ultra runner but I don’t make people read way too long books about my accomplishments and failures.
September 17, 2022
From rock bottom to mountain tops the author takes us on a wild, almost impossible journey with humility and thoughtful prose. His writing style flows well, leaving you cheering for his success while feeling the pain of the setbacks. If you’re looking for a story of encouragement, this is not to be missed.
April 29, 2025
i loved this so much — one of my favorite nonfictions to date. david’s story was not only fascinating but so honest and inspiring. i wish i would’ve read his other book first, but i’ll be making my way there soon. the timeline can get a bit confusing throughout, but the story overall is still amazing.
Read
April 16, 2022Very inspiring
Really enjoyed reading this book. A great insight to the mind of an ultra runner and the amazing feats that can be accomplished by the human, even after years of struggling.
Really enjoyed reading this book. A great insight to the mind of an ultra runner and the amazing feats that can be accomplished by the human, even after years of struggling.
August 10, 2024
I've read a few books on this subject "Born to run" both of David Goggins books. It's an interesting subject that I have no desire to even attempt. Clark had a very different view on it and as a "sober warrior" as Clark names them I really valued his perspectives on several of lives aspects.
December 3, 2024
good read
David writes a very interesting story. Kept me interested for the most part. Lost me a few times but still wanted to keep going. What an inspirational story of a comeback.
David writes a very interesting story. Kept me interested for the most part. Lost me a few times but still wanted to keep going. What an inspirational story of a comeback.
June 16, 2019
I loved this even more than the first book.
September 26, 2019
It was hard to get through...
January 25, 2020
David writes with so much emotion that you feel like your running with him. Very honest with his extreme endeavors!
June 10, 2020
Awesome. R.I.P, Dave. You're an inspiration.
June 28, 2020
A must read for runners and a great read for anyone else. R.I.P. David Clark.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews