Race
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This film tells the story of one of America's greatest runners in Jesse Owens. Overcoming both economic adversity and racial discrimination, Owens enrolls at Ohio State University and becomes a standout in multiple events. Under the guidance of his coach Larry Snyder, Owens qualifies for and competes in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Despite the racial tension at the games, Owens wins a record-breaking four gold medals. Watch this when you have a tough workout on tap—it'll help you envision that PR!
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Your Next RaceSpirit of the Marathon
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Whether you're training for your first marathon or your 10th, this documentary is sure to hit home and inspire you. The film follows six runners training for the 2005 Chicago Marathon. The cast is diverse and ranges from Olympian Deena Castor to newbie runners like Leah Caille. If you like this, you can also check out Spirit of the Marathon II, a sequel documentary about the Rome Marathon.
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Your Next RaceAcross the Tracks
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This movie flies under the radar, but it's hard to pass up a film starring Brad Pitt as a high schooler training and competing for his school track team. Pitt and his brother, played by Ricky Schroder, become rivals as one strives for a track scholarship while the other runs to stay out of trouble. If you've ever had a running buddy turned race rival, you'll identify with this movie.
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Your Next RacePatriot's Day
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The 2013 Boston Marathon bombings rocked the world, but they hit especially close to home for the running community. This drama tells the story of Police Sargent Tommy Saunders (played by Mark Wahlberg) as he moves from marathon security detail to a citywide manhunt for the Tsarnaev brothers. This film is an emotional one, but it's sure to make the miles fly by.
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Your Next RaceThe Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young
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Unmotivated for your long run? This documentary will put things in perspective. The film tells the crazy yet true story of one of the world's most difficult ultramarathons. Held every spring in Tennessee, the race is inspired by the 1977 prison escape of James Earl Ray, MLK Jr.'s assassin, from a nearby penitentiary. This cult-like race has plenty of quirks and only 15 finishers in its 32-year history. You won't be able to stop watching!
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Your Next RaceMcFarland, USA
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Starring Kevin Costner and produced by Walt Disney Pictures, you know it's got to be good. The film is based on the true-life story of the 1987 McFarland High School boys cross-country team. New head coach Jim White encourages the boys, who are primarily Latino and struggling with poverty, to take running seriously. The team thrives, eventually winning nine state titles. If you're a fan of underdog sports movies (Cool Runnings or Friday Night Lights, anyone?), queue this up for next time on the treadmill.
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Your Next Race
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