My Road to Rome - The Running Times of BJ McHugh

by Betty Jean McHugh, Bob Nixon

The world needs a sporting hero like Betty Jean McHugh, surely one of the unlikeliest of athletic champions. Over the past quarter century, BJ has won fame with her remarkable record as the fastest senior women's runner. She has set and broken dozens of world records in the marathon, half marathon and 10K road races - running faster than any woman her age have ever raced before. Countless runners have been inspired by her example, a woman who continues to race and set new records into her 80s. In her memoirs, BJ answers all those who wondered over the years about the secret of her success, determination and longevity. It is a fascinating story and all the more extraordinary when BJ tells of her life before she first put on jogging shoes when she turned 50. Hers is a life that rejects common notions about the physical limitations of old age. In that quest, BJ has become a model for all who seek to challenge with grace, strength and joy the inevitable decline that faces us all.

Genres: Nonfiction

196 pages, Paperback

First published September 7, 2011

Reviews

[Tina Ramen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great time capsule on how running became a popular trend in the past few decades for everyone of all ages especially how the sport changed for women. So inspiring to read BJ's story especially since she only started running in her late 50s. So so important for us to stay active and mobile as we age and reading BJ's accomplishments and humbleness is amazing.

[Jim Peplinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read. Everybody has a story and BJ tells hers beautifully. From growing up a farm girl to the early days of Vancouver and moving on to new pursuits with a boundless energy for enjoying all the elements of life. A great example of how to approach life.

[stephoto604 · Rating 4 out of 5]

simple read, definitely inspiring for runners of all ages... the author started running marathons after she turned 50 & still continues after turning 80! She came to speak at my running club & I picked up the book, enjoyed reading about her life story-growing up in Canada through such different times and how she remained active throughout!

[Nadia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspirational story of North Shore octengenarian marathon runner!

[Christine Tewfik · Rating 3 out of 5]

First half is a bit slow, but 2nd half is glorious and really accurately and eloquently expresses why people love to run.

[Franz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book - lots of interesting facts about the development of running as a sport, combined with BJ's personal story and the accumulated wisdom of a long life lived well.

[Ean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the book (especially because BJ is my friend and occasional running partner!) Thank you, BJ, for being our special guest at the book club