After seven years of writing, revising and publishing, Raglan runner Campbell Forlong has crossed a different kind of finish line with the release of his first book. The memoir, which chronicles a lifetime of endurance running, challenges and adventures, was officially launched at The Food Department, where friends, family and supporters gathered to celebrate the achievement
Congratulations Campbell, the book is out. What an accomplishment! How does it feel?
Getting the paperback proof in my hands was such a relief. Publishing a book was as tough as running the weekly marathons in 2017. It took 6 years to write and another year to get it in people’s hands. But holding the finished book was very satisfying.
Tell us about the book launch event.
It was fun! The Food Department was full of people, and Peti was an amazing host. I loved having my old Hamilton mates come and meet my new Raglan crowd. The young Raglan crew who arrived with my son Jordan devoured the platters of food created by Lorraine. The Q&A was filled with laughter as more stories not found in the book were told. Jane Edgar’s text summed it up:
“Thank you and Lorraine for that wonderful book launch last night. I have been to so many but none with the energy and insight you gave to a remarkable achievement. As I briefly said to you, ‘O the places you’ve been and the things you have seen’ but add on the people you met and motivated and enriched with your ‘crazy’ determination. Thanks again. Jane.”
What is something interesting that you have learnt from the whole experience of producing a book?
You are never too old to learn something new. As a kid I struggled with reading and writing and was poor at spelling, then failed School Certificate English. My son Jay, and Lorraine, both good writers, became my mentors, and my good mate Lindsay was my editor. It was a tough challenge but with amazing support I was back in class as an English student and discovered I could write.
What would you say to someone who may consider this path too?
You are the one who has to put in the hard yards, just don’t do it alone. Lorraine, my four sons, my running friends, and a whole lot of others all helped get this done.
How do people get hold of a copy?
Contact me on my website www.soulrunnernz.nz or email me campbell@soulrunnernz.nz and I can drop you off a signed copy.
Copies are also available at The Hut, The Food Department, The Raglan Visitor Information Centre, Zinnia, and Raglan Vibes.
What other running news have you got to share with our readers?
I am currently working with Sam at Rangitahi to launch a regular Sunday morning 5km trail run/walk loop around the beautiful peninsula. Our first one is Sunday 21st June, 8am at The Hut café. See you there … you never know where the trail might lead!
