Reza Baluchi is attempting the impossible: running 21,000 miles across the world's oceans in a human-powered vessel called a hydropod — a 12-foot wheel he powers by running inside like a hamster wheel.

Reza calls in from Taiwan at midnight, making final preparations for his fifth-generation hydropod. He plans to launch in December, heading south through the South China Sea, then west through the Red Sea and Mediterranean, before crossing the Atlantic back to America.

This isn't his first attempt. The U.S. Coast Guard has stopped him multiple times, damaged one of his hydropods, arrested him, and sent him to a mental hospital. Now he's launching from Asia — beyond their jurisdiction.

Born in Iran, Reza was tortured and imprisoned for 18 months before escaping as a young cyclist. He's since run 150,000 miles across continents. At 52, after being stopped, arrested, and told his dream is impossible, he's ready to push his hydropod into the Pacific and start running.

"If you have a dream, you must follow your dream. Dream no coming after you."

For more stories of long riders, sailors, ramblers, adventurers, and dreamers finding their way, visit TravelGrit.com.
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Creators & Guests

• Reza Baluchi - Guest