The Long Run

One Man's Attempt to Regain his Athletic Career-and His Life-by Running the New York City Marathon

By: Matthew Long, Charles Butler

Narrated by: Matthew Del Negro

Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

On the morning of December 22, 2005, New York City firefighter Matt Long was cycling to work when he was struck by and sucked under a 20-ton bus making an illegal turn. The injuries he sustained pushed him within inches of death. Miraculously, after five months in the hospital and more than 40 operations, Matt was able to start his recovery.

In addition to his physical injuries, Matt found the psychological consequences of the accident nearly as hard to process. In the 18 months before the accident, he had competed in more than 20 premier athletic events and had qualified for running's most prestigious race, the Boston Marathon. After the accident, one doctor told him he'd be lucky if he could even walk without a cane.

The Long Run is the emotional and incredibly honest story of Matt's determination to fight through fear, despair, loneliness, and intense physical and psychological pain to regain the life he once had. It chronicles Matt's road to recovery as he teaches himself to walk again and, a mere three years later, to run in the 2008 New York City Marathon.

©2010 Matthew Long (P)2010 Random House Audio

You think you have challenges?

What did you like about this audiobook?

This is an incredible story about the power of the human spirit and our ability to overcome all obstacles

How has the book increased your interest in the subject matter?

This book made me want to run and run and run as hard as I can

Does the author present information in a way that is interesting and insightful, and if so, how does he achieve this?

Yes - I loved the way the story unfolds of past and present stories

What did you find wrong about the narrator's performance?

Nothing - He sounded just like a guy from NYC

Do you have any additional comments?

Listen to this even if you have no interest in running

Very motivational

Bought this book for a friend who had a car accident and became a quadriplegic in June. He wanted to hear people's stories who had overcome great obstacles. This book is such as story. I listened to it, and was so motivated I began working out and running. I'm still going strong several weeks later, and I've now picked through all of Audible's fitness bios. Even if you aren't interested in fitness, it's a great read.

Listened to this twice

I really appreciate the great story telling and the sheer raw grit he had to be able to overcome such a huge life changing event that almost ended his life. What an inspiration for us all.

Just Wow!

This book spoke to me on so many levels. I'm very familiar with the races Matt describes in this book because I have completed them myself. We all have our struggles, but Matt's story gives the word "resilience " a whole new meaning. I actually cried listening to the last chapter. Thank you Matt Long for sharing your story with us. You are an inspiration.

inspirational

loved this book. what an inspiration not only for runners but everyone struggling to achieve. it's a battle of the mind and this book has motivated me to push even harder.

Purely Amazing

This book was at times heart wrenching, hilarious, and sad. It kept me entertained the entire time and I recommend this book to anyone interested in a amazing story.

Inspired

This was by far the most inspiring and heart felt story I've ever heard.

You don't have to be a runner to read this. . .

If you could sum up The Long Run in three words, what would they be?

Courage. Endurance. Encouragement.

What other book might you compare The Long Run to and why?

Wow. I don't think anything else comes close.

What about Matthew Del Negro’s performance did you like?

His transparency. His honesty.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I laughed. I cried. I cringed. I sat silent, at times.

Any additional comments?

I tackled some tough stuff in my life after listening to this book.I love Matt's motto. . .No longer will I wish. . .No longer will I want. . .from now on. . .I will.

Inspiring stuff

Amazing story! If Matt Long can come back from what he went through, there are no excuses for any of us! I couldn't hit stop..

Inspiring Story, Gift-Worthy Book

Honestly my luck with audiobooks has been poor. I was really getting discouraged in my selections as they just have not held my attention, and I've been pretty particular and paid attention to reviews. By luck I suppose I ran across this one, and boy am I glad I did. What an amazing story. Detailed - absolutely. Too much so - not in my opinion, but I'm a detail person and appreciated it. I agree with another reviewer - the fact the reader has a New York accent aids in the enjoyment and the ability to visualize what's described. Just can't say enough. Type of book I'd buy and gift to people - and not just athletes as the story applies to anyone who's faced with challenge. Few in my opinion would regret this purchase. Just hope I can find others in future that can hold a candle to this one.