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Edinboro senior running across the U.S. for charity

PITTSBURGH — How far can you make it on your own two feet?

It’s a question for some and a challenge for others.

For an Edinboro University student, it’s a call to action.

“I came up with the idea on a run one day. I just thought it would be cool to run across America,” said Garth Watson.

Watson, a senior at Edinboro, is running across America to raise money for the organization “Stand Up To Cancer.”

“I thought if I could use my running abilities, that’s the thing I’m best at,” Watson said.

Watson started his run on May 11 in Ocean Side, Calif. Since then, he’s traveled across the country averaging about 40 miles per day.

His father is driving along in an RV, meeting Garth every 10 miles for hydration.

“He wants to run 10 miles, and I’m right there at 10 miles. I have his recovery drink ready for him and have a cold drink ready for him. I have everything ready for him to make it as nice as can be,” said Garth’s father, Frank Watson.

On Day 80, several of Garth’s friends joined him and ran part of the marathon with him as he ran through Edinboro.

His friends said they aren’t surprised he took on the challenge, they said that’s just who Garth Watson is.

“Garth has always had a big imagination with what he wants to do with his life,” said Chris Lantinen. “I’m glad he’s putting it to good use.”

Garth’s journey is set to end in New York City on Aug. 15.

WPXI

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