THE STORY: A group of runners, of various ages and backgrounds, are discovered midway in a marathon race. As they pull abreast of each other they chat amiably; renewing old friendships; introducing themselves to new participants; and discussing their lives beyond the world of racing. Some are young, some old; some veterans, some novices; some married, some single. As they jog on, signs pass by announcing the miles left to go until, at last, the finish line appears. All complete the course, and while the competitive spirit quickens as the end of the race nears, it is also clear that in their shared enthusiasm each is rooting for the others as much as for himself. It is how the race is run that matters most and, in the final essence, all who compete—and go the full distance—are winners, no matter when they cross the finish line.
A tour de force of style and originality by one of our theatre’s most creative and distinctive writers. Following the progress of a group of entrants in a grueling marathon race, the play fits together their various personalities and observations into a mosaic which captures the special nature of those for whom running is an almost mystical experience.
Included in the collection
The Great Labor Day Classic and The Former One-on-One Basketball Champion.
