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God on the Starting Line

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The Triumph of a Catholic School Running Team and Its Jewish Coach

By Marc Bloom

This compelling, heartfelt story about Marc's experience coaching a high school cross-country team is being talked about throughout the running and track community. And even beyond, since, as the many excellent reviews state, you don't have to be involved in running to enjoy this story and feel renewed by its messages of hope, faith, commitment and joy.

Paperback, 2007, 240 pages.

This is much more than a story of different religions, Jewish and Catholic, meeting on the cross-country course. I was drawn into the story by an even more eternal struggle: old vs. new. Coach Bloom preaches the value of pain, hard work, suffering, and delayed gratification. His cross-country kids are, well, kids. They want to have fun, chase girls, and enjoy the loosey-goosey life. In Bloom's inspiring tale, both coach and kids learn suprising lessons from each other.

--Amby Burfoot, Executive Editor, Runner's World

"God on the Starting Line" is a classic, a tribute to all those who pursue excellence with talent, pride, courage, and the ability to endure. It's the best sports book I've read in years and should be required reading.

--Bud Greenspan, Emmy Award-winning Olympic filmmaker

Marc Bloom's book will reaffirm your belief in the value of sport for young adults and the invaluable bonds that can form between a dedicated coach and his high school team.

--Marty Liquori, former world-class runner and NBC Olympic track commentator

Marc Bloom's latest book is a joy to read. The story of his heartfelt attempt to teach his runners and guide them through a roller-coaster season toward the climactic state championship is told with compassion and understanding. As a high school coach myself, I am proud that Marc is among us seeking higher standards for young runners.

--Alberto Salazar, former world-class runner and coach

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