Mark J. Kushner

Runner's Honor Mark J. Kushner

Duty to country or duty to self? It is 1967 and we are at war in Vietnam. The young men of Barrel, Illinois have served with pride in every prior war but times have changed. Danny O'Neal, star cross country runner of the Barrel High School Hawks, faces the decision of whether to serve as his brother did. Coach Frank Dillon is intent on rescuing the Hawks from the prospect of war. He makes a deal where his team receives college athletic scholarships, and the student deferments that will save them from the draft, if they win the state cross country championship. 'Runner's Honor' chronicles Danny's coming of age, leading his team through the tortuous training that might bring them the championship and their scholarships, while learning for himself where his duty lies. Anyone who admires those who unselfishly serve while hoping there would be a better way will enjoy 'Runner's Honor'. Anyone who has jogged a mile and imagined winning Olympic Gold will cheer for Danny and his teammates.