Michal Gontaszewski from the western town of Polkowice has set on a journey around Poland, which he hopes to finish in three months.
29-year-old Gontaszewski will march along Polish borders with Germany, Russia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. He will cover a distance of 3,511 km and will have to walk over 500 km along the Baltic coast and over 1300 km in the mountains. His aim is to cover 40-65 km a day, walking for 12 hours and resting for another 12 hours.
Gontaszewski will sleep in a tent and carry his own provisions on a special two-wheeled trolley. “I’ve got GPS so my brother will know where I am and where to bring food or other necessities. GPS will also give me a sense of safety,” said Gontaszewski who took only two pairs of shoes with him, but a large first aid kit.
“I’m not afraid of people whom I may meet along the way. I’m more afraid of loneliness, ticks and stray dogs,” said Gontaszewski and added that his main fear is the lack of motivation. “I’m afraid that I will wake up one day and won’t have strength or motivation to continue my journey,” confessed Gontaszewski.
The idea to walk along Poland’s borders was born several years ago, admits Gontaszewski. “It has always been my dream. I want to test myself during this extreme journey and promote my mother town,” said Gontaszewski.
Internet users can follow Gontaszewski’s journey around Poland on www.dookola-polski.eu. (mg)
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