A fascinating documentary about two world-class marathon runners who emerged from Mexico's Raramuri Indian tribe, filmmaker Juan Carlos Núñez's Swift Feet is a sad but ultimately triumphant story about lost opportunities. In the 1990s, two Raramuri high-performance athletes, Victoriano Churo and Cirildo Chacarito, became top contenders in ultra-marathons around the globe. They were legends who went against the grain of lucrative sponsorships, eschewing Nike shoes for their preferred sandals cut from old tires. But support for the men simply dried up, and further chances to underscore their dominance in the sport disappeared, leaving them stranded. Cut to contemporary times: the now grizzled, grey-haired Churo and Chacarito are too old to run again, but while reflecting on their glory days they are also eager to help a new generation of runners fulfill their own destinies. One can't help but feel sympathy for Churo and Chacarito while also being excited to see a new batch of Raramuri competitors take on 100-mile races. Some of the most interesting material here concerns Raramuri preparation and training for marathons, which includes kicking a ball while running to enhance control. An interesting sports documentary with a strong human interest story, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)
Swift Feet
(2016) 78 min. In Spanish, Raramuri & English w/English subtitles. DVD: $100: public libraries; $250: colleges & universities. Study guide included. EPF Media. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-933724-47-8. Volume 33, Issue 2
Swift Feet
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