Why this activist will run 1,500 miles from Greece to Glasgow in 80 days

By Joe Pagnelli via SWNS

A runner is set to start a Herculean race from Greece all the way to Glasgow – which will see him cover a staggering 1,500 miles in 80 days.

Super-fit Agis Emmanouil, 51, who is also an actor, is hoping to reach the Scottish port city in time for the United Nations Climate Change Conference which will be held in November later this year.

The major climate event is expected to bring together the largest gathering of heads of state ever hosted in the UK to agree on a global action plan to tackle global warming.

The Greek activist will run from Athens through six different countries – including stops in Milan, Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam, and Manchester before finishing in Glasgow.

He is due to set off on August 11 and will run the distance of a marathon every single day without any assistance.

Agis was inspired after watching David Attenborough's "A Life on Our Planet" to raise awareness on the effects of climate change.

“Seeing the animals, seeing them disappear, it was heart-breaking. The entire documentary can move you," he said. “I cried every time I watched it. I think there’s nothing else more important to fight for – for us, for our children, and for future generations.”

Agis has never set foot in the UK before and said he is looking forward to seeing England and Scotland for the very first time.

He said that upon arriving in Glasgow he hopes to "feel like Mel Gibson in Braveheart."

Agis began running in 2014 and has since completed two dozen marathons before venturing into the world of ultramarathons – which are races longer than the usual 26-mile distance.

The sporting event originated in ancient Greece, after Philippides is said to have run from the city of Marathon to Athens.

Agis added: “This run has a symbolism for me as running represents health, longevity and happiness because through it you forget your problems.

“When you run, you are happy.”

If you want to support Agis on his run, you can donate here.