Dr. Joe I. Vigil-known simply as "Coach" to virtually everybody he has ever met, rose from poverty to become a towering figure in the running world. Coach has won 19 national championships and coached 425 All-Americans, 22 Olympians...and an army of "Vigilantes" who seek to emulate his unique blend of compassion, competitive spirit, and commitment to others.
In this long-overdue biography about America's preeminent distance-running coach, author and Vigilante Pat Melgares shares Coach Vigil's tale not just through the consummate storyteller's own words but also through those of more than 50 family members, friends, former runners, and foes who have been shaped by his presence over a lifetime.
Coach Vigil is driven by a persistent desire to learn, a deep faith in people, and an unwavering loyalty to his hometown of Alamosa, Colorado. His life is an American dream, a must-read for anyone who loves an underdog or seeks to understand the timeless qualities that forge a leader.
"Coach Vigil is an inspiration to me, and now others will get the chance to see the passion and compassion of this remarkable man. I was fortunate to be with him at a time when my life and athletic career were blossoming. He believed in me and he instilled the importance of the nine inches above the shoulders: anyone can get ready physically for a race, but the mental component is also just as important."
Meb Keflezighi, 2014 Boston Marathon winner, 2009 New York City Marathon winner, Olympic m
"There are few distance coaches in the world who have as broad of an impact on distance running as Coach Vigil. Like so many, my program was based off the backbone structure of Coach's training philosophy. I am certain that I would have never run at the level I achieved had it not been for Coach Vigil's influence. He is a sage in our sport who has empowered us all to break through, and Pat Melgares has given all of us the opportunity to better know this amazing man and coach."
Ryan Hall, U.S. record holder in the half marathon, two-time Olympian
