THE 'RUNNING MAN': Luther Rupp passes through Destin en route to running the beaches around Florida

As he jogs along the beach, Luther Rupp crosses paths with a fellow runner headed in the opposite direction. He calls out, “Isn’t this fun?” With a fist pump, the stranger agrees, “Yeah!”

However, this 56 year-old insurance agent isn't just another runner on the beach. The Ohio native plans to run the entire perimeter of Florida's beaches. His journey started at the Florida-Alabama state line on Jan. 1 after a “Polar Bear Dip.”

When The Log caught up with Rupp at the James Lee Park, he was headed East to Grayton Beach State Park.

“I jog between five and 10 miles a day,” Rupp said. He admits he’s not setting any records, though.

“It’s not a race and not a walk. I just like jogging,” he said.

Unsure of exactly how many miles he will run, looking at the map, Rupp says he plans to finish by the end of the year.

“My goals with this run are to jog every step of the way,” said Rupp. “And to encourage people I meet to not just exist, but to live.”

Rupp's theory of embracing life's passions has led him to educate others and give workshops to help people improve their lives. By encouraging people to focus on their passions, he hopes to help others find the key to happiness.

“Your heart plus your talents and gifts really does equal your destiny, especially if you let God lead.”

The energy of the people, beautiful beaches and the variety of activities in the Sunshine State attracted Rupp to run here.

“I have lived overseas and toured the U.S. but, the energy of the sun and water combined with the active and positive lifestyle of the people has made this state my new home.”

After his jog, Luther plans on settling in Palm Harbor. Although, he says Destin is a cool place, too.

“The people in Destin have been really fantastic,” Rupp told The Log. “They really seem to love what they do.”

To track Rupp’s journey, visit FloridaPerimeterBeachRun.com.