John Baker's Last Race
28 mins
John Baker emerges as a fine runner while in High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and then continues setting records at the University of New Mexico. His ability is world-class, and after receiving his university degree he accepts a position as a coach and physical education teacher at Aspen Elementary School while continuing to train (with the 1972 Olympics in sight). He becomes very popular with parents and students alike, for seeking ways to involve all his students, even those with an apparent lack of ability. Learning that he has terminal cancer he contemplates suicide, but instead chooses to dedicate himself even more to the kids, helping even the handicapped to participate, and co-founding and coaching the Duke City Dashers, an all-girl AAU track team. He hopes his "last race"...already beating the odds by a year, will not end before seeing this team win the national title.
Elizabeth Saxon
Polly Baker
Rulon Bradley
Narrator (voice)
Debbie Letteau
Law Student (Credit Only)
Paul Plunkett
Mike
Yvonne Robertson
Script Researcher
Raymond G. Kroker
Still Photographer
W. Grant Williams
Gaffer
Douglas G. Johnson
Producer
Jon Tilton
Grip
Karl Wesson
Assistant Director
Stephen R.E. Aubery
Sound Recordist
Tim Clark
Grip
Helen Conklin
Production Office Assistant
Jon Hollowman
Orchestrator
Merrill B. Jenson
Music
Curt Marthey
Grip