a runner’s high

TRAILER 001

The short documentary, “A Runner’s High”, follows Kallup McCoy, a Native American endurance athlete who battles a crippling drug addiction, multiple suicide attempts and jail time.

As he is locked up for the final time, he meets a pastor who completely alters his perspective on life, and is inspired to run the Trail Of Tears in its entirety. Eventually running 800 miles in 40 days, finding recovery after many years of drug use, and finding purpose through his faith.

THE STORY

DIRECTORS STATEMENT

I found this story “A Runner’s High” by accident 3 years ago. While searching for a story to film and share, I found Kallup McCoy, a Cherokee Native American who is an endurance athlete. I knew he ran ultra marathons and races all the time and that was initially my focus and reason for contacting him. However; on my first phone call with him, I learned His story was much deeper than just an athlete and a sport.

When I first heard his story, it sounded unbelievable and straight out of a movie. But after talking to members of his community from his former high school coaches, the county Sheriff, Cherokee Chief, and family, I learned every single bit was true and that this story had to be shared through the screen.

This story follows a man as he recalls the darkest time of his life, the turmoil and destruction in his wake, and eventually sees him find redemption and purpose. I want people to watch this film and to feel inspired, inspired to achieve their goals, kill the demons that haunt them, and to leave knowing redemption is a road that takes just a step to start. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my heart behind this story, and I hope you consider contributing to this film.