Sobania aims to cover the 5,200 km distance in 140 days.
He expressed his enthusiasm about the challenge, announcing that he will run “a marathon each day - sometimes in two parts, sometimes in one go.”
"I want to inspire people to believe that they can do more than they think possible," Sobania said. "That's why my motto is 'you can do more than you think.' The charitable aspect involves raising funds to purchase 100 'accessibility boxes,' which are tools designed to improve communication for people with disabilities.
"This will help them communicate more easily in places like government offices or with doctors, making the world more accessible to them. I will promote this fundraiser while running, aiming to collect PLN 100,000 (USD 25,800, EUR 23,300) for this cause."
Sobania's preparations for this five-month run have taken over a year, and have included extensive travel across the United States and meetings with the Polish diaspora to discuss his plans.
He acknowledged the significant budget required for the expedition but has secured funding through sponsors.
The runner and his support team, consisting of a driver, a photographer and a physiotherapist, will reside in a large camper trailer provided by a Chicago-based Pole who has lived in the United States for 30 years.
Sobania will travel to New York to start his run off in Central Park.
Highlighting the cultural aspect of his journey, Sobania plans to attend a basketball game and a concert along the way, although he is uncertain if his schedule will allow it.
He also hopes to meet with actor Tom Hanks, referencing Hanks’ iconic role in Forrest Gump, where his character also runs across the US.
In a symbolic gesture, in Washington, D.C., Sobania will receive an American flag that has previously flown over the Capitol building.
An American film producer has expressed interest in making a full-length documentary about Sobania's run, which will coincide with the US presidential election campaign, adding a political backdrop to the athletic feat.
The journey is planned to conclude on February 9 at the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, known for its hilltop setting overlooking the city.
Sobania’s father, Emil, shared his confidence in his son's mental and physical preparation for the journey, recounting past challenges Tomasz has overcome during extended runs, including a run to Greece and back that spanned 3,600 km.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP, flashscore.pl