Hood to Coast Documentary

Last night I went to see Hood to Coast, a running documentary about the 197-mile 36-leg relay race from Mt. Hood to the Oregon coast. My impression was that Hood to Coast is a celebration of the mediocre and ordinary, doing extraordinary things. 

“Hood to Coast follows four unlikely teams on their epic journey to conquer the world’s largest relay race. The film captures the love, dedication, and insanity of the every day runner as well as the excitement, pain, and humor of the unprepared first timer. Their stories are reminders that no matter who you are, you can push yourself beyond where you thought your limits were.” 

The four teams they followed each had a unique perspective on the race:

A bunch of old runners, just trying to hang on to their past glory (Dead Jocks in a Box).

A family and frat brothers celebrating the life of one of their brothers who suddenly passed away just before running the race last year. 

A graphics design office, especially two runners who did not train at all for the experience and had never run before. (“We’re just going to drink beer. And eat. As much drinking as possible…and then if we do finish, all the better!”)

An older woman who died on the course (and obviously was brought back to life) last year.

The theater was full of runners, so we could all sympathize with the racing experience. People moaned in sympathy when a turtle-type runner, struggling through the dark, was blown past by a speedy speedster. And the competitors who’d never run before said everything I’ve ever felt before, during, and after a race. (“I’m in two legs, right? What? I’m next??? Oh %^&@!!!” “This is ridiculous, what am I doing here?”) 

But because it’s not about elite runners, and isn’t too running-culture-specific, you don’t have to be a runner to enjoy the film. LLC came and said she liked it, though at times I was laughing and I’m pretty sure she was rolling her eyes in disgust…(i.e. one of the runners talks about how much he would love to use the bathroom or throw up at one point. We’ve all been there, right?).

Hood to Coast was only in theaters last night, so I’m not sure how you can see it now! I’ve contacted the production company, so I’ll keep you updated. In the mean time, watch the trailer. And if you can't see it, click here to watch it on their website.





Here's a link the official website.