The Authentic Runner-third edtion by legendary high school coach Tim Butler provides a unique approach to coaching and running based on a “transformational approach”

The Authentic Runner-third edition is the work of Tim Butler. Coach Butler is the legendary California Cross Country and Track Coach from Dana Hills High School in Southern California. Coach Butler led Dana Hills to 5 CIF Titles, 4 California State Titles, 6 State runner ups and 9 Nike Nationals appearances. He is now an assistant at his alma mater, San Clemente High School. The last 7 years he helped them to 2 CIF Titles, the first boys State Title in the 60-year school history. Additionally, they made 2 Nike National appearances and coached them to back-to-back 4 x 800 State Champions in 2023-2024.

His book, The Authentic Runner-third edition provides what he describes as a “transformational approach” to coaching and participating in sports and life. Coach Butler provides an alternative to the “win at all costs” transactional philosophy.

Coach Butler has added some new pictures to the third edition. Importantly, he has added contributions from seven of his star runners from his recent San Clemente successes.

The Authentic Runner-third edition provides the ingredients necessary to create a healthy heart; and describes what that heart looks like through inspiring stories.  By adhering to the 5 C’s (control-contact-contentment-commitment-character), Coach Butler teaches that sports will serve the highest purpose of being the purveyor of true character and citizenship, which is the purpose of The Authentic Runner.

The Authentic Runner-third edition divides itself into three main areas of focus.  The first being Butler’s experiences as an athlete and coach. Here he discusses his mentors and the influences that formed his life and coaching tenets. The second part of the book highlights his five core philosophies, the five C’s: Control, Contact, Contentment, Commitment and Character. The book culminates with alumni testimonials from those Coach Butler has coached and watched grow through his program.

Coach Butler says that “the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart.” My purpose is to build young men to become a great friend, a great teammate, a great husband, a great father, a great employee, and a great citizen.”