McFarland: Town up and running, even before film

In the 1980s, people were certain there was something in McFarland's water. 

How else to explain the unlikely cross-country dynasty launched at McFarland High in 1987 when the children of farmworkers, under the guidance of an unproven coach, won their first of nine state championships? This feat of excellence was so unfathomable to rival teams that they conferred mythical powers on the town and