Tomasz Sobania, a 26-year-old extreme runner from Poland, is in the midst of the greatest challenge of his life—running across the United States from New York to Los Angeles. This ambitious journey spans 140 days, 5200 kilometres, and 125 marathons. Yet, for Sobania, this run isn’t just about achieving a remarkable athletic feat; it’s a mission to promote Poland, inspire others, and raise awareness for charitable causes.
A Journey Across America: Sport and Purpose
Sobania began his transcontinental run in September 2024, and as of now, he has covered over 3400 kilometres, making his way to Texas. With each passing day, he inches closer to his goal in Los Angeles. Along the way, he proudly represents Poland, carrying the nation’s flag and emblem on his chest. By appearing in American media, Sobania aims to show that “Poles can achieve anything.”
But the run isn’t just a personal dream—it’s a platform for advocacy. Sobania has organized a relay for individuals with disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders. The event, held under the motto “MORE. Run Across America,” highlights the idea that anyone, regardless of limitations, can pursue their passions. “We want to inspire people to realize they’re capable of much more than they think,” Sobania explains.
An Impressive Track Record
Sobania’s American run builds on a legacy of extraordinary achievements. In June 2023, he completed a 90-day, 3600-kilometre run from Chorzów, Poland, to Marathon, Greece, and back. Each day, he ran the equivalent of a marathon, covering terrain across six countries: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Greece.
In November 2022, Sobania ran a 60-day, 2500-kilometer journey from Gliwice, Poland, to Barcelona, Spain, finishing his run at Camp Nou stadium, where he met Polish football captain Robert Lewandowski. The journey, marked by 60 marathons, was yet another testament to his determination to combine sport with charity.
In 2021, Sobania ran to Rome to attend an audience with Pope Francis. During this 1500-kilometer journey, he raised 50,000 złoty for a young girl battling cancer. Other notable accomplishments include a 300-kilometre run to Santiago de Compostela in just seven days, and an 18-marathon run from Zakopane to Gdynia, Poland, spanning 756 kilometres in 18 days.
Running Across America: A Vision Beyond Sports
The goal of Sobania’s U.S. run extends far beyond the miles he covers. He plans to create a feature-length documentary in collaboration with American producer Alex Klymko. The film will chronicle his journey and serve as a testament to the idea that life’s obstacles can be overcome with determination and courage.
In addition to the documentary, Sobania’s campaign, titled “You Can Do More Than You Think,” is designed to inspire people worldwide—especially those facing disabilities, illnesses, or other challenges. He also aims to promote the positive image of Poland in the U.S. and support his run’s sponsors.
The Polish Forrest Gump
Known as the “Polish Forrest Gump,” Sobania is not just an extreme runner—he’s a symbol of resilience and hope. Through his extraordinary athletic feats, he has proven time and again that a single step can lead to monumental change, whether it’s crossing continents or touching lives.
With every stride, Tomasz Sobania shows that perseverance knows no limits. As he approaches Los Angeles, he carries not just the Polish flag but also the aspirations of countless individuals inspired by his journey. For Sobania, the finish line isn’t just a destination—it’s a starting point for a legacy of purpose-driven achievements.
“Everyone can do more than they think,” Sobania says. “Sometimes, all it takes is that first step.”