‘Born to Run’ author to visit BGSU

BOWLING GREEN, O.—For centuries, the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s Copper Canyon have practiced techniques that allow them to run hundreds of miles without rest and chase down anything from a deer to an Olympic marathoner. Their story is at the heart of “Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen,” by Christopher McDougall. McDougall will visit Bowling Green State University Oct. 1.

“Born to Run” was this year’s Common Reading Experience. Since 2001, all new first-year students have been required to read a book in common during the summer prior to starting classes. This year, the Wood County District Public Library Community Reads group selected the same book for its fall reading.

McDougall's day will start at 8 a.m. Oct. 1 with a fun run/walk from BGSU's Jerome Library to the public library, and back to Jerome. Registration is required. Community Reads will hold a reception for the author at 5 p.m. at the Carter House, 307 N. Church St. Free tickets to the event are available at the district library's checkout desk. McDougall will wrap up his day with a presentation and book signing at 7:30 p.m. in the Bowen-Thompson Student Union Ballroom.

McDougall’s visit is just one of a number of events tied into this year’s Common Reading Experience. BGSU has also partnered with “Eco” Erek Hansen, a local recycling advocate, on a shoe recycling project. The project will kick off Oct. 1 and will run for the entire month. Shoes of any type, in singles or pairs, in any condition, will be collected and either distributed to those in need, or used as raw material for sidewalks, running tracks and playground mulch. Visit the Common Reading events page for a list of drop off locations.

Obstacle races that take runners over hay bales and through mud are growing in popularity. BGSU will host its own version on Oct. 18.

The Community Reads group is also hosting several events tied to “Born to Run.” On Oct. 7, the community can learn more about the Tarahumara Indians from Diane and Dr. Scott Regan, BGSU retirees who have visited Copper Canyon; Bowling Green City Prosecutor Matt Reger, who has worked in developing countries; and Dr. Amilcar Challu, an assistant professor of history at BGSU, who will provide a cultural, economic and health-related perspective on the Tarahumara people. The event starts at 7 p.m. at the Carter House.

The community can meet 13-year-old EcoErek at 2 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Wood County District Public Library and learn more about his recycling efforts.

Visit the Common Reading events page for more information.