Physical therapist Brad Dodson and I just returned from the University of Virginia Running Medicine conference where the topic was the “Gait Debate”. Before an audience of 200 health professionals and physical therapists, I got to speak on the true meaning of natural running. (Hint: it’s all about play.) See my recent article called “Nature, Play, Running, and The Lost Art of Fartlek” on the Natural Running Center website. Brad and I also entered the McCormack Road Mile. Brad, a 4:07 miler in his college years, ran a respectable 4:35. I had not run a mile race in over 25 years, so I was happy with a barefoot 5:01, especially over a rain-soaked course. As for the woman right behind me, I don’t know her name, but I believe she races for Ragged Mountain. She finished one second behind me. –Dr. Mark
