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Becoming Forrest

One man's epic run across America

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About this listen

The remarkable true story of an unrivalled journey to recreate the greatest run in film history: 15,621 miles, five-times across the United States.

‘Rob Pope has made his name revelling in challenges that range from the unconventional to the extraordinary.’ BBC News

Becoming Forrest is the incredible story of Englishman Rob Pope, a veterinarian who left his job in pursuit of a dream – to become the first person ever to complete the epic run undertaken by one of Hollywood’s most beloved characters, Forrest Gump. After his momma urged him “to do one thing in life that made a difference”, he flew to Alabama, put on his running shoes, and sped off into the wilderness.

His remarkable journey covered 15,600 miles, the distance from the North to the South Pole and a third of the way back. Over a grueling 18 months, braving injuries, blizzards, forest fires and deadly wildlife, he crossed the United States five times. During one of the most turbulent periods in recent American history, Rob immersed himself in American life. His time on the open road saw him forever changed, trying to make that difference, in the process of Becoming Forrest.

This is a tale of one man who just wanted to make a difference.

Art North America Personal Development Personal Success Running & Jogging Sports United States Inspiring Thought-Provoking Heartfelt Walking Wilderness Injury

Critic reviews

‘Rob Pope is a real-life Hollywood superstar!’ Dean Karnazes, author of Ultramarathon Man

‘A simply staggering feat of endurance and storytelling. The tenacity, curiosity and humour of Rob’s amazing journey comes through in every page of this wonderful tale about people, discovery and a very, very long road.’ Mark Beaumont, author of The Man Who Cycled the World

‘With tons of humour Rob Pope takes us into one of the greatest running journeys. Lace up your shoes and enjoy this excellent book!’ Kilian Jornet, runner and author of Above the Clouds

‘What Rob has achieved both physically and mentally is mind-blowing, a true feat of human endurance.’ Tom Evans, Ultrarunner

‘A very readable and entertaining travelogue about an effing extraordinary run.’ Damian Hall, author of In It for the Long Run: Breaking records and getting FKT

‘Most of us watched that scene and thought: cute. Pope watched it and thought: could that be possible? … Like Gump, Pope also experienced what it was like to drift through America when history rears its ugly head. … He brightens people’s day. Pope is serious about running, but, just like Gump, he doesn’t overthink it. Why should someone run? “Because you want to,” he says.’ The Observer

‘A stirring chronicle … What quickly becomes striking — on top of the extreme distance of his runs, often “forty miles every day without rest” — is Pope’s innate curiosity and fascination with the world around him. … This is sure to inspire distance runners as well as those interested in a hearty slice of Americana.’ Publishers Weekly starred review

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Really enjoy Robs dulcet tones, both soothing & thought provoking. Life is for living & enjoying at a sensible pace so you have time to see the good in people and the worth in things. Rob demonstrate this well. Great listen.

Just wonderfully thought provoking but easy to listen to

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Rob narrating his own book works so well. His infectious personality draws you in and the story becomes more compelling as it progresses. It's a madcap challenge which adds to the fun but Rob is also a great runner. Respect from this Evertonian.

Great story full of character

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Loved it! Made me want to run (down the road for me - I'm not a runner!)
The places never get dull in Rob Pope's telling. I'll give it a month then listen again. Best buy on Audible so far for me!

Inspiring!

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What an epic listen. the account is fascinating and inspiring. the positivity is refreshing and I've had the privilege of meeting such a humble gentleman in person. we spoke for 15mins before we even mentioned running, or who he was. ironic really as it was at a running event. its my privilege to say I've met, spoke, made fun of and shared a mutual dislike of festival port-a-loos... we all have bonds.

My experince

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Loved every second of this book. Amazing and what an amazing man to achieve such a feat of endurance for the good of charity. I have had the pleasure of meeting the author and can assure you he is the nicest man I have ever met. And deserves all the recognition that this truly inspiring book gains

Absolutely brilliant

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