«What a marvellous idea for a book about the most fascinating characters in the history of distance running! No one is better fitted to tell their stories than Phil Hewitt, a brilliant wordsmith devoted to the sport.»

Peter Lovesey, novelist and athletics historian

«A fascinating look at the limits of human endurance - informative, inspiring but above all entertaining.»

Kate Mosse, author and broadcaster

«A highly inspirational and touching legacy to the many long distance runners who have achieved great triumphs against the odds. A gem for the running community at large - of which I belong.»

Anna Nicholas, author and journalist

«An eclectic runnerpedia of astounding facts and inspirational stories, Hewitt's book reveals characters prepared to do just that little bit more to reach their chosen running goal. Sourced from a vast array of running lore, even the most seasoned reader will find something new and wondrous here. I read it from cover to cover, but you could just as easily dip in whenever you want. Enjoy.»

Charles Rodmell, gearselected.com

«An inspiring celebration of the milestones and motivation of running's greatest stars, In The Running also lauds the everyday heroes at the back of the pack. Encyclopaedic and engaging, you'll delight in its many tales of courage, camaraderie and sheer craziness.»

Lisa Jackson, author of Your Pace or Mine?

«For women, it's not just about running. It's about changing their lives. Phil Hewitt captures this in his compelling narrative of these astonishing women who have created this sport.»

Kathrine Switzer, first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon, winner of the 1974 New York mar

«A passion for running and runners shines through this book, a timely reminder that at its essence it is the purest, most simple of sports. Through its legion of subjects, all hugely accomplished in their different ways, Phil Hewitt engagingly captures running's soul.»

Stephen Brenkley, enthusiastic runner of five marathons and former cricket correspondent of The Inde