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

Tough as nails

This guy is obviously as tough as they come, and this is an equally tough book. I listened to it within a 24hr period, partly because I didn't want to be in a black mood for any longer. I don't mind admitting I had tears in my eyes for portions, partly because of Longs struggle, and partly because of the support he received from his family and community. Powerful, upsetting, heart warming and intense, this is not a light book but it is very thought provoking and interesting.

Interesting insight into New York & very inspiring

Would you consider the audio edition of The Long Run to be better than the print version?

Loved the audio so much if it was in print I would have read the book through the night! Well put together and inspiring.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Matt Long and all his family and buddies!

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

Rough sexy voice!

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Long run

Any additional comments?

Lots of insights, importance of family and friends! Reminds me how much I love running! Most interesting part for me as a South African woman living in Maputo it was so interesting learning re NY! Only thing missing was - did he meet girl of his dreams yet?

Dont pass this one up!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes!
It is a great book that will help you reach your goals!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Matt Long... Because it is about him.

Which character – as performed by Matthew Del Negro – was your favorite?

All of them... Matthew Del Negro is a great Narrator... It is hard to believe he is not the Author.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes... But I think listing to it in multiple sittings is actually a better experience... It lets the story sink in!

Any additional comments?

Dont pass this book up!

READ THIS BOOK AND NEVER USE EXCUSES

Would you consider the audio edition of The Long Run to be better than the print version?

YES

What did you like best about this story?

THE FAMILY SUPPORTED EACH OTHER.

Which scene was your favorite?

I CRIED WITH SADNESS AND JOY, DURING THE ENTIRE STORY.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

IT COULD BE WORSE

Any additional comments?

ANYONE WITH ANY PROBLEM, SHOULD READ THIS BOOK
AND REEVALUATE THEIR LIFE !

Excellent Book, Great Story

This was a great listen. Narrator is good and the story is really good. I didnt' actually find it too inspiring as far as running goes but it was inspiring for getting through any tough and challenging situation in life.
Really good book.

Outstanding and Motivating!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Long Run to be better than the print version?

Excellent book and so inspiring. So great to listen to while out for a bike ride or a run.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Yes, the blackest points in his life and how he managed to crawl back up and keep trying.

Could not stop listening

Where does The Long Run rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Inspiring, shows if you have a dream, desire then nothing can stop you achieving it

What does Matthew Del Negro bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Captured you and just drew you in

Inspiring story

Motivating story that reminds us not to give up in the face of hard times. Very easy leasning.

Wow

Fantasy! Thank you for sharing your amazing story! In the midst of marathon training, I listened to Mattie long share his road to run again! My kids enjoyed it too!

Intense and Inspiring

The Long Run is an amazing story about Matt Long's life -- his athleticism, his values, his courage, and his dogged determination to choose the life he wants to live. It is amazing what the human body and human spirit can overcome when one gives persistent effort and surrenders to the support of loved ones and a team of amazing therapists/coaches.