Mcfarland runners thomas valles biography

Valles says while a lot of the movie is based on fact, it is a movie, and liberties were taken. In reality, Valles and his family moved to McFarland inand he grew up working in the fields with his parents. He never saw the money he made as it went to support his family. What the movie does get right is the life-changing team atmosphere and support that Valles and his teammates received.

We were recruited young. You set goals and keep positive. Valles began running with White while in seventh grade. In the movie, Valles is depicted as the team's top runner, who struggles throughout the film. Valles said that for a long time after the movie came out, he found himself in denial and saying it was all Hollywood.

Mcfarland runners thomas valles biography: 35 years later, coach

While some moments were dramatized and fictional in the film, Valles says eventually his work as a correctional officer made him realize how his life could have turned out. It was thanks to his teammates and their encouragement that he finally decided to share his story with the younger generation, not knowing he would impact them the way coach White did for him.

White sees the athletic potential at the predominantly Latino high school and decides to put together a cross country team. He offers the kids a chance to know what it feels like to be champions.

Mcfarland runners thomas valles biography: Valles is now a

All Research. By Kevin Lang Published February 22, Cheryl White Pictured in It's not a documentary. It's based on a true story, but not everything's very factual, but it's still an enjoyable movie. I didn't do some of the things they had me doin' in there, but that's alright, that's Hollywood. We developed a program. Did I do it that way, no, but it's okay in the movie.

Mcfarland runners thomas valles biography: McFarland, USA (also known

It turned out fine. Like in the McFarland, USA movie, Coach White sometimes helped the kids pick in the fields so that they would have more time to practice. Young Woman and the Sea: History vs. The Boys in the Boat: History vs. The Iron Claw: History vs. Next Goal Wins: History vs. Nyad: History vs. Gran Turismo: History vs. True Spirit: History vs.

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Mcfarland runners thomas valles biography: Following McFarland's legendary championship,

Thomas Valles. Hector Duran. Although his speed isn't what it used to be, every step Valles takes still inspires. Welcome, Mickey. Manage MyDisney Account. Log Out. By Ryan Field.