Bill Kanas is on the receiving end of a special opportunity to research his heritage and run in the ultimate marathon at the same time.
Kanas, representing the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), will run in the Athens Marathon on October 31. The event will mark the 2,500-year anniversary of the first ever marathon.
Kanas, a personal trainer, called it a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. Kanas, who attends Holy Trinity – the only Greek Orthodox church in Delaware. He said his friends and family believe the history of the marathon and his chance to visit Greece lined up perfectly.
“It seemed all the pieces fit,” he said. “Everyone I talked to said it would be perfect.”
Having run his first ever marathon in 2009 (at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington), Kanas is already training for his 26 mile run in Athens. Kanas said his plan is to run 5-7 miles three times per week, while cross training and strength training.
Kanas said he'll build up his endurance by adding two additional miles to his weekly routine on Saturdays. Sunday is a day of rest for the Delaware native.
Although AHEPA will make arrangements for Kanas’ trip, he is solely responsible for securing all funds. The cost for each participant is $5,100. Currently, Kanas said he secured $3,200 with the support of his friends, church, family, co-workers and by reaching out to the press. On August 26, he intends to host a wine tasting event at Deerfield Fine Wines in Newark to raise additional money.
Kanas said running gives him the opportunity to travel and “de-stress and be alone.” As far as his mental preparation for the race, he said he wont concern himself with the other runners.
“You gotta run your race and do what works for you.”
