English Section

Polish ‘Forrest Gump’ completes 5,250 km run across the USA

03.02.2025 12:00
Extreme runner Tomasz Sobania, dubbed the “Polish Forrest Gump,” completed his cross-country run across the United States on Sunday night.
Tomasz Sobania (C).
Tomasz Sobania (C).PAP/Marcin Cholewiński

Sobania, who ran 125 marathons covering more than 5,250 km in 139 days, described the experience as feeling “like a tank had run over my body and psyche.”

Sobania set off on September 15 from New York City’s Central Park, passing through Washington, Chicago, and the entirety of historic Route 66 before finishing his run in San Diego.

Reflecting on his grueling journey, he said the challenge was as much a mental battle as a physical one.

“I ran to inspire people—to show that anyone, even someone from a small town with almost no opportunities but big dreams, can achieve what seems impossible,” he told reporters.

The runner acknowledged moments of doubt along the way, adding that the thought of giving up would have haunted him forever. He credited a dedicated support team, including friends and a traveling crew in a camper, for helping him complete his run.

Sobania, whose previous feats include a 3,600 km run from Chorzów to the Greek Marathon and back in June 2023 and a 60-day football stadium dash from the Piast Gliwice to Camp Nou in November 2022, emphasized that his achievement is measured not merely by the distance or accolades but by the personal journey and perseverance it required.

“My message is: you can do more than you think,” he said.

(jh)

Source: PAP