Napoleon Chagnon devoted a significant portion of his life to the study of the Yanomamo of the Amazon Rain Forests of Venezuela and Brazil. Many of us were exposed to their culture in Antropology classes. It can now be revealed that Dr. Chagnon brought several Yanomamo back with him to Happy Valley beginning in 1977.With their culture in dissarray they naturally gravitated to comfortable settings. YES, that means the Cross-Country and Track teams. Many teammates never realized the origins of the men running next to them. Several of the South American natives actually excelled, even winning Marathons associated with large Relay Carnivals. Some later became Men of God in New England and even Lawyers in Suburban Philadelphia. There were many sightings of naked runners throughout Central Pennsylvania in the late 70's, wearing what appeared to be blue shorts on their heads. "Mud Men" appeared numerous times, a precursor to a war that luckily never materialized. In later years, the Yanomamo appear to have adopted a more peaceful aquatic lifestyle, channeling their origins along the Amazon River. Never mess with a Yanomamo, especially when in their "Mud Men" garb. They aren't called "The Fierce People" for nothing. (The flagship "Yanomamo" actually hosted Coach Groves on at least one occasion.) New photo added, showing starting line of Cross-Country race on the Blue Course, circa 1978. Note the large number of Yanomamo in full "Mud Men" warfare mode. PSU won the meet handily, as the opponents never returned after the first loop.
Anyone else remember the Yanomamo?
please no pix of the running p3n1s on the streets of park forest
ReplyDeleteTHAT sounds interesting. Alas, I not only don't have a photo, but I don't know anything about it!
ReplyDeleteIn the mid to late 70's many Yanomamo tribesmen were spotted on the Pine Forest loop. Unaware of what to do with the Athletic-department issued shorts, they proudly placed them on their heads.
ReplyDelete