First Nations ultrarunner Darius Sam to be featured in short documentary

While running is a physical sport, all runners know that the mental side can often be the most challenging. For Lower Nicola First Nations ultrarunner Darius Sam of Merritt, B.C., running is an escape and the only way to manage his self-doubt. In 2020, the uncoached and inexperienced runner challenged himself to run 100 miles to raise awareness for mental health and those suffering from addiction in his community. The journey is one that 20-year-old Sam took on, less for the accomplishment of it than to reignite lost confidence through discipline, depicted by Even/Odd director and Syrian-Canadian filmmaker Amar Chebib in a new short documentary film, The Runner, to be released on YouTube in alignment with Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Oct. 10.

Runners know that tackling any ultra distance is no small feat, but 100 miles with limited running experience?

The film tackles the ever-timely topic of mental health through the heart of endurance sports: the power of mental fortitude in overcoming physical pain and self-doubt. 

Also featured in the film is Sam’s mentor, Mark Nendick, who helped map out his training and shared many of the 4 a.m. miles by his side. The film carries the message that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, and will inspire athletes to embrace and overcome their limits, physically and mentally.

In 2021, Sam became the youngest man to complete the Moab 240, a 240.3-mile footrace through some of Utah’s most stunning and challenging terrain.

The short documentary will be released on the video streaming app YouTube on Oct. 10.