FAQs about a solo-Run Across America

1.Why run Across America?

Many "journey" and competitive runners have crossed the continent, mainly from west to east. The first trans-American footraces, the "Bunion Derbies" ( a joke name that was subsequently used to describe the races) of 1928 and 29 were directed by Charles Pyle who hoped the races would catch the public's imagination with prize money totalling $50000. The first race from LA to New York was won by a young runner with little experience, Andy Payne from Oklahoma. A second race running fin the reverse direction was won in controversial circumstances by John Salo, an American from New Jersey over the Englishman, Peter Gavuzzi, by the slimmest of margins of les than 3 minutes. More controversially the race director was bankrupted by the event and never paid a penny in winnings. No further races were organised until the mid 80s when a two man race was held between Englishman Malcolm Campbell and an American, Marvin Skageberg. The race was another close finish with only 16 minutes separating the two men. A further two races were held in 1992 and 1995, followed by the 2002 and 2004 events. Over the years there have been many individual crossings and there are a number of very good websites recording the crossing of these so called “journey runners” (see links page) and to date nearly 200 individuals have been recorded as crossing the USA on foot with about 7 solo.

2.Why run from west coast to east?

I have it on good authority that the preferred route is easier from west to east. Most Importantly it is downhill all the way! On a more serious note, the prevailing winds tend to come from the west and the added advantage is the sun is on one's back in the heat of the afternoon. The disadvantages include a couple of tough first few weeks before the plains of the mid-west.

3.The route?

The route follows a familiar route from Huntington Beach, California to Central Park, New York. The directions and schedule have been kindly provided by Alan Firth, the Race Director of the 2002 and 2004 Trans-America races and covers a total distance of 3100 miles. If all goes well it is hope to average about 40 miles a day for 70 days, arriving in NY at the beginning of August. The route passes through California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey and New York. The route directions are very detailed and I also intend to use a compass a map rather that learn how to read a GPS unit.

4.Why solo?

A combination of factors has resulted in a solo-attempt. Dad was instrumental in supporting a successful run from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 2002, but he passed away in 2003 after a short illness. There is only individual who could cope with the stresses of such a trip and survive spending 10 weeks alone with me away from his family, but he appears reluctant in committing himself at this stage. Furthermore, the costs are reduced significantly if I dispense with a support vehicle and crew.

5.How to carry one’s gear?

I will be using a baby jogger with 20” wheel and racing tyres to carry food, water and equipment. This approach has been used by two recent journey runners, Paul Staso and Rune Larsson (both with excellent websites). Rune has been incredibly helpful land supportive in answering the myriad of questions I have submitted.

6.Accommodation?

I plan to use cheap motels where possible, but will carry a light sleeping bag for nights where I cannot locate suitable lodgings. I am also open to offers from any homeowners willing to put a sweaty runner up for the night.

7. Will I be running all the way??

After a number of searching questions from work colleagues, I have to confess that I probabaly won't be running "all the way". It is not an rgansied race and although I have a planned schedule I suspect I will be walking most days and certainly on the stepp ascents in Utah, Colorado and Pennsylvania. Furthermore, I will be taking breaks both during the day and at night and will stop frequently for photos, drinks and comfort breaks.

8. How do I prove I covered the whole distance on foot???

I have to confess that I will not be able to prove conclusively that I completed the run on foo, unaided for the ensitre 3084 miles. There is obviously a temptation to take a bus, taxi or plane for part, if not all the way. However, this is a solo-journey with no winners. It is a journey of discovery and an ambition I have held for many years. Woud there be any benefit in taking a short-cut? Am I the sort of person who would cheat............well, I can sympathise with the those of a suspicious disposition!