It’s a case of run Jamie run for USA adventurer

A British adventurer is feeling the pressure just days from beginning his attempt to become a real-life Forrest Gump by running nearly 6,000 miles across America.

Jamie McDonald, 31, will be dressed as superhero Adventureman as he attempts to conquer the US unaided, having previously run across Canada.

The former tennis coach, from Gloucester, will start his run tomorrow at Cape Alava in Washington, the most western point of the US.

His journey will take him through more than 15 states, including California, Texas, Tennessee, Washington DC and New York, on his way to the easternmost point of mainland US: West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Maine.

Running by himself and without a support crew, Mr McDonald will battle through desolate and lonely deserts, sub-zero temperatures and the constant threat of wild animals, injuries and the uncertain elements as he runs the equivalent of 230 marathons.

“I have spent the last month just trying to get into the gym to do some strength training and a little bit of running but I have got to say that I haven’t done much at all,” he said.

“I have got to run 6,000 miles and I don’t really want to add to that.”

This time though, he is beginning to feel the weight of expectation on his shoulders.

“It’s really weird and there is huge amount of pressure on this one,” he said.

“I don’t know why I am feeling it so much more.

He has packed three pairs of trainers, one set of spare clothes and loaded up his trusted baby stroller, which has already got a few strange looks from US border guards.

He came to prominence in 2012 when he cycled 14,000 miles from Bangkok to Gloucester on a £50 second-hand bike.

Jamie McDonald.