It's a crazy idea: Running 210 miles in a week. Russell "Rusty" Allwein is well aware how crazy it sounds, which is exactly why he's doing it.
Allwein is not running to prove he can do it, though that is likely a personal goal. He's running from West Virginia University to the University of Maryland College Park to raise money for the Zaching Against Cancer Foundation.
"I didn't know Zach but I was touched by his story," said Allwein.
He's talking about Zachary Lederer, a College Park student who became a symbol in the fight against cancer a few years ago. Zach was battling brain cancer for the second time. He would post photos of him doing a strongman pose, which became known as "Zaching," to show his strength in the face of difficult times.
"When I heard about his inspiration, his Zaching pose, his spirit and how he wanted to help others, I knew I wanted to be involved with the foundation," Allwein said.
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Sadly, Zach passed away in 2014. His family started the Zaching Against Cancer foundation to provide support to cancer patients, their families and caregivers. And it's people like Allwein who are working to keep his memory, and his mission, alive.
Allwein came up with the idea to do a run, from his alma mater to Zach's college. He began doing an intense training regiment 21 weeks ago and plans to run about 30 miles a day.
"What I think is going to get me through is the stories and the people, why we're doing this, the people that the foundation are going to help, and the people I personally know who are affected by cancer."
Allwein is planning to arrive at Byrd Stadium at College Park on Saturday, Oct. 8. You can donate to his run by clicking here.
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