Once a Runner

Once a Runner

by John L. Parker, Jr. 

I had a few RAs who were harder to meet with this semester, but I have finally met everyone!  I did have the opportunity to finish the book Once a Runner by John Parker.  It is a fictional story that draws upon the real-life experiences of the author and is set on the imaginary campus of Southeastern University (based on the University of Florida).  The lead character is Quentin Cassidy, who looks back after his Olympic days to the four years that led up to him becoming an elite one-mile racer.  After Cassidy is removed from the school’s racing team for leading a protest campaign against the institution’s dress and conduct policies, he trains under the direction of his coach, a former Olympic runner, outside of the school’s jurisdiction.  Using a disguise, he is able to enter a trials race against the world’s fastest mile runner.  The last chapters capture the build-up to the race, Cassidy’s anxieties, adrenaline taking over, and the last quarter mile between him and the world champion.  Cassidy finally meets his goal – winning the race – but, more importantly, runs the mile in sub-four-minute time at 3:52:20.  The book provides an excellent view into the mind of a runner and all of the things that one experiences: physical ailments, mental anguish, team support, and much more.  Additionally, Parker adds great depth through the interplay among Cassidy’s teammates, a cast of characters to say the least!  A classic for athletes.  Read this one.