View Full Version : Self Supported In Under 60 Days
i think you'll need to extend that mpd scale a bit past 44 here soon :)
Well, it's cumulative, meaning each point on the line shows the average miles/day from the start through that day. If Matt can do it in under 50 days, I will be happy to change the scale, lol.
I think that he is going to achieve this goal.
Lone Wolf
07-22-2013, 22:26
I think that he is going to achieve this goal.
i said that in vermont when i was supporting andy thompson on his 1st record attempt. he quit at stratton mtn. and was 1 day + ahead of the record
Alligator
07-22-2013, 22:32
Thanks for the data, Odd Man Out. Here is what I was able to put together:
22888What is the Map Man Average Cumulative Miles/Day measuring?
What is the Map Man Average Cumulative Miles/Day measuring?
IIRC, that's for an "average thru", compiled by Map Man. I think he did it two or three years ago, before or during Jen Pharr Davis's record trek.
Just Bill
07-22-2013, 22:59
i said that in vermont when i was supporting andy thompson on his 1st record attempt. he quit at stratton mtn. and was 1 day + ahead of the record
Never speak to soon- sage advise- and bad joo-joo. It's looking good Del Q- but Lone Wolf is right- I like to stick with Go Matt Go!
Alligator
07-22-2013, 22:59
IIRC, that's for an "average thru", compiled by Map Man. I think he did it two or three years ago, before or during Jen Pharr Davis's record trek.OK that explains why it is so far down. Is it supposed to be for a SOBO?
OK that explains why it is so far down. Is it supposed to be for a SOBO?
Exactly. I took map man's SOBO average mpd by section and worked out the cumulative average over the whole trip, basically filling the data in linearly between his data points. I did the same with his NOBO numbers, seen on the sample I posted earlier in the thread.
Odd Man Out
07-22-2013, 23:27
A few updates just posted. With the expected big miles through SNP he has almost caught up with the linear pace.
22924
Alligator
07-22-2013, 23:41
Exactly. I took map man's SOBO average mpd by section and worked out the cumulative average over the whole trip, basically filling the data in linearly between his data points. I did the same with his NOBO numbers, seen on the sample I posted earlier in the thread.How many of Map Man's data points are there in that first 59 days?
It would be interesting to see what the shape of Map Man's Average Sobo's entire curve looked like compared to the top several curves. (Maybe this was printed out previously.)
How many of Map Man's data points are there in that first 59 days?
It would be interesting to see what the shape of Map Man's Average Sobo's entire curve looked like compared to the top several curves. (Maybe this was printed out previously.)
The lowest line (orange) has the entire curve, based upon Map Man's waypoints and miles/day between them. Again, I linearly interpolated between the data points, and converted his data from a section (between waypoints) average to a cumulative average (from start of trip to the day that represents the point on the line). I also fudged the "lengthening" of the trail, as his data has it at 2175 rather than 2185.9. I also seeded Day 1 with 8 miles, as we really only know from the data that by Stratton it averaged 11.5, so the line ascends linearly from 8mpd to 11.5mpd at Stratton.
I am marking the waypoints on the chart as Matt reaches them, to show which day he reached it rather than the day it would be on any of the targets.
Here is the data showing the waypoints and the cumulative average at each:
Destination
Section MPD
Cumulative Miles
Cumulative Average MPD
Katahdin
0.0
8.0
Stratton
11.5
187.9
11.5
Gorham
10.3
298.0
11.0
Glencliff
9.8
398.6
10.7
Kent
14.4
722.4
12.1
DWG
14.5
894.8
12.5
Harpers Ferry
16.5
1165.1
13.2
Waynesboro
16.6
1326.2
13.6
Damascus
16.8
1714.8
14.2
Fontana
14.5
2011.9
14.2
Georgia Border
15.7
2099.4
14.3
Springer
14.3
2185.9
14.3
I should add that based upon when Matt crosses a future waypoint, the orange line may change a bit (the shape will not change much, but the inflection points could move). Until he reaches them, I am using the linear target to project the waypoints, which are the inflection points. Everything that he has already covered shows it based upon when he reached the waypoint.
Here's an updated chart based upon the latest data.
I'm enjoying the data geekery almost as much as I am the rooting for Matt part. Kinda like two years ago with Jen. I'm still basking a bit in the glow of her accomplishment there - awesome. Matt's starting to get into sniff-the-barn territory. Not quite, and you still have to hope for him that he eludes injury and doesn't tire, but you get the feeling he's in great shape for exceeding his goal.
Speaking of which anyone want to start a no-stakes pool predicting his final time? I'm in the 58.7 days range about now.
I'll go in with 57.8. He's gonna do big things!
Odd Man Out
07-23-2013, 12:20
Speaking of which anyone want to start a no-stakes pool predicting his final time? I'm in the 58.7 days range about now.
I'm predicting he gets to Springer at noon on Day 60 which, by his reckoning would be 59.1 days.
rocketsocks
07-23-2013, 12:46
58.4.............
Just Bill
07-23-2013, 12:54
Using the term very loosely, my scientific formula has him at 56.43 days. I'll go with that, but would say that overall Matt has proven to be very wise in his pacing/self control thus far- I think Odd Man has the right number. Matt is one of the more consistent hiker's I've seen, he really hasn't produced the wild variations other's have put up. Pure guesswork on my part- but I think that discipline will continue until the very end. His start time strategy is one of the more brilliant moves I've seen- he's set up for an overnighter to finish if he needs or wants it. Overall one of the more interesting record attempts to follow. I admire him just as much or more for his mental moves.
If he picks up his pace proportionally to the average hiker, he would finish on day 57. I'm not predicting the fraction, lol.
That said, anything can happen, and I continue to root for him.
Just Bill
07-23-2013, 13:12
You have to predict a fraction, otherwise you won't win the prize (Matt's unwashed underwear I believe? But I think Rocketsocks was in charge of the prize department. Hopefully he's not giving out one of his spent "rocketsocks") Go Matt Go!
rocketsocks
07-23-2013, 13:14
You have to predict a fraction, otherwise you won't win the prize (Matt's unwashed underwear I believe? But I think Rocketsocks was in charge of the prize department. Hopefully he's not giving out one of his spent "rocketsocks") Go Matt Go!
Oh, I'm pretty sure I could come up with a prize..from my prize dept :-?:D
Feral Bill
07-23-2013, 13:16
How about a prediction poll! I'm too lazy to set one up, but would participate.
OK, if I have to predict the fraction, what time did he leave the Baxter summit on the first day? If you have the initial wind speed, wind velocity, and barometric pressure I can also factor that in. :)
The Solemates
07-23-2013, 17:21
if you listen to his splits in the videos everything has happened at 9:42 am (I think this is the time he has said). He mentioned this time at Katahdin, at the Halfway Point, and at Harper's Ferry if I am not mistaken. Therefore, sticking to the consistency comment JustBill made, I say he pulls an overnighter the last day at ends at 9:42 am, making it a 58.0 day trek.
max patch
07-23-2013, 17:29
Roger Maris hit 61 in 61 so I'm saying
61
jersey joe
07-23-2013, 18:45
if you listen to his splits in the videos everything has happened at 9:42 am (I think this is the time he has said). He mentioned this time at Katahdin, at the Halfway Point, and at Harper's Ferry if I am not mistaken. Therefore, sticking to the consistency comment JustBill made, I say he pulls an overnighter the last day at ends at 9:42 am, making it a 58.0 day trek.
+1! I like this guess. Matt has the resume to do this. 36 days in...i'd say barring any injury, he's got the record!
I think that this guy is in his stride and will continue to fly in the heat .................after all, he has J Pharr behind him
Records are meant to be CRUSHED .......... not just beaten
Lone Wolf
07-23-2013, 20:34
he's got a ways to go....
he's got a ways to go....
I'm going in with optimism instead of skepticism and pessimism. But, I am.also a cubs fan. Dude has a real chance.
Lone Wolf
07-23-2013, 21:09
I'm going in with optimism instead of skepticism and pessimism. But, I am.also a cubs fan. Dude has a real chance.
i go with realism. i know a little somethin' about this game
MuddyWaters
07-23-2013, 21:31
Im pulling for him.
But halfway is only halfway.
Just because you can keep up a pace for 30 days, doesnt mean you can do it for 60
The wear and tear on the body is accumulative
i go with realism. i know a little somethin' about this game
It's plenty realistic to think dude has a real chance. No guarantee, but I'd rather cheer for the dude than sit back and wait to see what happens. It's the sports fan in me.
full conditions
07-23-2013, 22:04
i go with realism. i know a little somethin' about this game
I imagine he'll be coming through Damascus pretty soon - maybe you can enlighten him all about "the game" then. I'm sure he'll be all ears :).
CrumbSnatcher
07-23-2013, 22:08
Sobo record holder--- Matt Kirk 57.75 days
Nobo record holder--- Ward Leonard 60.5 days
rocketsocks
07-24-2013, 01:03
i go with realism. i know a little somethin' about this game
The odds are in your favor...
The Willie Makits have to be right each day till he finishes
The Beatty Wonts only have to be right once until such time
Im pulling for him.
But halfway is only halfway.
Just because you can keep up a pace for 30 days, doesnt mean you can do it for 60
The wear and tear on the body is accumulative
Iam pulling for him.But its never over till the fat lady sings..
illabelle
07-24-2013, 05:57
The odds are in your favor...
The Willie Makits have to be right each day till he finishes
The Betty Wonts only have to be right once until such time
Changed the spelling. Seems like this is closer to what you intended.
'Tis cute, by the way! :)
rocketsocks
07-24-2013, 06:11
Changed the spelling. Seems like this is closer to what you intended.
'Tis cute, by the way! :)Brillant! Mucho better, thanks Illabelle...nice to see you postin again :)
jersey joe
07-24-2013, 09:20
40.1 miles on day 37....
Day
Daily
Total
MPD
Camp
1
37.80
38.2
38.20
Wadleigh Stream Lean-to?
2
33.20
71.4
35.70
Logan Brook Lean-to
3
40.10
111.5
37.17
Leeman Brook Lean-to
4
39.70
151.2
37.80
Caratunk
5
31.90
183.1
36.62
Horn's Pond lean-to
6
35.50
218.6
36.43
Piazza Rock Shelter
7
42.80
261.4
37.34
Frye Notch?
8
36.90
298.3
37.29
Gorham(White Mtn. Lodge)
9
26.90
325.2
36.13
Osgood Campsite
10
27.90
353.1
35.31
Zealand Falls
11
22.90
376
34.18
Lonesome Lake
12
33.30
409.3
34.11
Just S of NHH25A
13
34.40
443.7
34.13
Norwich
14
32.30
476
34.00
Stealth Site
15
34.00
510
34.00
Stealth Site
16
36.00
546
34.13
Stealth Site
17
36.50
582.5
34.26
Congdon Shelter
18
37.60
620.1
34.45
Dalton MA
19
36.40
656.5
34.55
Mount Wilcox S Lean-to, MA
20
39.80
696.3
34.82
Stealth Site
21
38.90
735.2
35.01
Stealth Site
22
37.30
772.5
35.11
23
36.00
808.5
35.15
Stealth Site
24
38.30
846.8
35.28
Jim Murray Property
25
38.20
885
35.40
Stealth Site
26
37.00
922
35.46
Near Delps Trail
27
38.00
960
35.56
28
40.70
1000.7
35.74
29
42.60
1043.3
35.98
Doyal in Duncannon
30
33.80
1077.1
35.90
.7 N of PA 94, PA
31
40.60
1117.7
36.05
Tumbling Run Shelters, PA
32
34.80
1152.5
36.02
3mi S of US alt 40
33
34.70
1187.2
35.98
Bears Den Hostel
34
36.50
1223.7
35.99
Tom Floyd Wayside
35
42.10
1265.8
36.17
1.2 N of Big Meadows Wayside
36
42.10
1307.9
36.33
Blackrock Hut
37
40.10
1348
36.43
Stealth Site
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 10:17
Don't forget Candy Dooitt, she doesn't care one way or the other- just likes to speculate on his chances.
My theoretical itinerary suggested it would take 33 days to get to Bears Den Hostel and that is exactly how many days it has taken Matt to get there, so he is right on that schedule. In an earlier post I had added some numbers on the itinerary incorrectly and said that Matt was one day ahead of schedule in getting to Duncannon, when in fact he was right on schedule. I corrected that post -- sorry if I misled anyone due to my confusion!
max patch
07-24-2013, 13:56
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
Feral Bill
07-24-2013, 14:02
Despite my disinterest bordering on distaste for such endeavors, I find myself increasingly rooting for Matt. Will he do it? Call me Wayten Sea.
hikerboy57
07-24-2013, 14:04
Despite my disinterest bordering on distaste for such endeavors, I find myself increasingly rooting for Matt. Will he do it? Call me Wayten Sea. I'm in the same camp it ain't over till the fat lady sings I am rooting for him though
I'm in the same camp it ain't over till the fat lady sings I am rooting for him though
Same here. Per Yogi, "It ain't over till it's over" but I would love to see him do it.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 14:27
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
Completing a thru-hike, at any speed, is a dream come true. In that sense I enthusiastically support and vigorously root for anyone pursuing that dream. That's all it is until you take the last step. Matt continues to impress, even beyond what his resume suggests. That said; call it pessimism, realism, or just plain bad joo-joo I wouldn't call it anywhere near close yet. As wiser boy's than me have already pointed out. Halfway is exciting, the potential is thrilling, his mental state and self control are amazing... keep on rooting or keep on pooing. One way or another we'll (hopefully) all find out one fine day in Georgia in a few short weeks. Go Matt Go!
Completing a thru-hike, at any speed, is a dream come true. In that sense I enthusiastically support and vigorously root for anyone pursuing that dream. That's all it is until you take the last step. Matt continues to impress, even beyond what his resume suggests. That said; call it pessimism, realism, or just plain bad joo-joo I wouldn't call it anywhere near close yet. As wiser boy's than me have already pointed out. Halfway is exciting, the potential is thrilling, his mental state and self control are amazing... keep on rooting or keep on pooing. One way or another we'll (hopefully) all find out one fine day in Georgia in a few short weeks. Go Matt Go!
A couple questions come to mind.
1. What day is he on? Did he start around June 12 or before that? June 12 would put him on Day 44 at the moment, if he started in the morning as appears to be the case.
2. Does he intend to do as Jen and Brew did at some point and broadcast his stretch run closer to real time?
As to 1, if he's to day 44, we'll have a better idea how close he is. I'd imagine if he'd had to quit, word would have gotten out. Day 44 would analogize to rounding the final turn for the Belmont. Close to the stretch run, but not quite there.
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
It is a definite maybe!
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
I have no clue if he's going to make it or not, but I do know that I'm cheering for him big time.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 15:00
Driver8- I could be wrong, but to the best of my knowledge- nobody officially knows the answers to those questions except family and close friends. Is it possible for clever folks to figure it out, sure. I believe Map Man hinted he may have that knowledge, I also believe he (very kindly) choose to respect Matt's feelings and wishes on the issue. He leaves the days out of his post for a reason, privacy. He's not posting to his blog or reporting anything other way than the YouTube posts. The start time thing was quite clever- original idea or not- Lone Wolf may know if another runner or record setter had the idea first. So long story short- we'll all have to nail bite and speculate at the same pace. Hopefully when it's close, he'll tighten up the delay- but as a personal guess- I kinda doubt it- I think one day we'll just get the news.
Yes, if he wants to keep his start date and actual position private, we should respect that.
Driver8- I could be wrong, but to the best of my knowledge- nobody officially knows the answers to those questions except family and close friends. Is it possible for clever folks to figure it out, sure. I believe Map Man hinted he may have that knowledge, I also believe he (very kindly) choose to respect Matt's feelings and wishes on the issue. He leaves the days out of his post for a reason, privacy. He's not posting to his blog or reporting anything other way than the YouTube posts. The start time thing was quite clever- original idea or not- Lone Wolf may know if another runner or record setter had the idea first. So long story short- we'll all have to nail bite and speculate at the same pace. Hopefully when it's close, he'll tighten up the delay- but as a personal guess- I kinda doubt it- I think one day we'll just get the news.
Probably more about security than privacy, and certainly understandable. It was different for Jen, as she had a whole crew supporting her.
max patch
07-24-2013, 15:46
Yes, if he wants to keep his start date and actual position private, we should respect that.
Just playing devils advocate here; we don't know when he started, we don't know wheres he hiking, doesn't the lack of transparency bother anyone? Keeping your location private is understandable when you are Joe Blow out for a day/week/month/thru, but not so much if you are out for a record.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:03
Jen's crew was 5 people max, but half the time she was solo, I think her biggest on trail pace crew was two, and that was a short stretch. Most of her pacers didn't/couldn't hike with her all day. Brew was the only full trip crew member. Matt and his dog hiked with her, his wife stayed with Brew, you could call it a 4 man crew. She had a reporter issue that freaked her out, but otherwise no creeps. I truly think it is privacy, despite any very minor publicity/fame, (and the dreaded announcement) its a very private thing, I think most of us feel the same way even on a regular hike. I don't know why, but it freaks me out when somebody knows who I am on the trail (from a journal, other hikers, etc.) It's like getting a phone call on an unlisted number. The security thing is in the back of all our minds, maybe a hair more for someone doing something like this. Jen had a crowd at the finish (about 30), but she also lived nearby and basically had lots of friends and family. Matt's YouTube account only has about 50 subscribers- so other than the few folks here- nobody knows who he is. I'd guess he'll have a handful of folks come out, but probably only ones he knows personally. Not picking on you about it, hope it doesn't feel that way. I'm working on being the HikerMom of the Speed hike forum:D YAY everyone!!
Odd Man Out
07-24-2013, 16:04
Just playing devils advocate here; we don't know when he started, we don't know wheres he hiking, doesn't the lack of transparency bother anyone? Keeping your location private is understandable when you are Joe Blow out for a day/week/month/thru, but not so much if you are out for a record.
Short answer for me, No. He is posting a video log every day, many with references to locations and encounters that could be verified by the paranoid after the fact if they really wanted. Is it possible he has someone giving him rides to carefully selected trail heads each day to fake this evidence? Of course. Is reasonable to think this is happening? I don't think so.
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
It's like playing craps. Betting against the shooter is better odds, but not as much fun.
Just playing devils advocate here; we don't know when he started, we don't know wheres he hiking, doesn't the lack of transparency bother anyone? Keeping your location private is understandable when you are Joe Blow out for a day/week/month/thru, but not so much if you are out for a record.
Certainly those in his inner circle know, and his positions are being reported, albeit with an unspecified delay. That seems very reasonable to me. If I were in his position (and I never will be), I would even consider having folks out on the trail to provide security. Two or three people could manage it without having to keep up with him.
Out of curiosity, did Ward Leanord have someone validating his entire hike, or was he on the honor system, like everyone else on the AT?
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:16
Just playing devils advocate here; we don't know when he started, we don't know wheres he hiking, doesn't the lack of transparency bother anyone? Keeping your location private is understandable when you are Joe Blow out for a day/week/month/thru, but not so much if you are out for a record.
Should he do it, I'm sure it will come up- more than a fair question. Despite defense to the contrary- it's a race plain and simple. To claim victory you need to prove it. I'd personally just take his word for it, but we'll see what he comes up with. I remember Brett Maune breaking the JMT speed record, by a fair bit too. He got ripped to shreds and only got begrudging, belated credit from many folks after winning (not just finishing) the Barkley Marathon. His effort sticks out in my mind because if by some miracle I ever pull something off, I'll need to cover my ass up and down the trail to convince anyone. A SPOT is pretty straight forward- starting to become a requirement in some running circles, but I hesitate to demand such proof at this point, but I'd probably use one. I'm guessing Matt will go a bit more traditional; Photos, some videos, and other mementos. Haven't heard from other hikers, but handing out a business card with a "report you saw me message" is another good way. He could be doing that and asking people delay their posts... The more the better, but I think Matt's reputation and involvement in the community will probably end up as his strongest form of proof. One of his rules was that he honestly and openly document his hike. Not that I agree, but there's already a few rumbles about another issue with his hike, keep it to yourself if you know what I mean, no sense to add fuel to a fire that shouldn't be burning. If and when it happens, half will give it on his word alone, 40% will want details, 5% on either end won't care what he comes up with.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:21
[QUOTE=Odd Man Out;1506131]Short answer for me, No. He is posting a video log every day, many with references to locations and encounters that could be verified by the paranoid after the fact if they really wanted. Is it possible he has someone giving him rides to carefully selected trail heads each day to fake this evidence? Of course. Is reasonable to think this is happening? I don't think so.
Sadly Odd Man; this exact scenario is what happened to Brett- he did video records, several a day actually, which were tirelessly reviewed (along with photos) by several trail experts who all verified that the timing, light, shadows, ad nauseam all matched up with his report.
max patch
07-24-2013, 16:26
I'm not accusing Matt of anything just wondering out loud about the lack of transparency. If he makes it I'll take him at his word.
I think at some point a Spot or something similar as mentioned by Just Bill will be routine for people out for records.
If accepting someones word was all that was required then Lance Armstrong would still be on the bike and Ryan Braun would be playing baseball tonite.
Driver8- I could be wrong, but to the best of my knowledge- nobody officially knows the answers to those questions except family and close friends. Is it possible for clever folks to figure it out, sure. I believe Map Man hinted he may have that knowledge, I also believe he (very kindly) choose to respect Matt's feelings and wishes on the issue. He leaves the days out of his post for a reason, privacy. He's not posting to his blog or reporting anything other way than the YouTube posts. The start time thing was quite clever- original idea or not- Lone Wolf may know if another runner or record setter had the idea first. So long story short- we'll all have to nail bite and speculate at the same pace. Hopefully when it's close, he'll tighten up the delay- but as a personal guess- I kinda doubt it- I think one day we'll just get the news.
I never intended to imply that I know what day Matt started. I have no idea. In an earlier post I simply mentioned that it might not be a good idea for anyone to report any real-time Matt sightings on this thread.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:36
I'm with you 100% Max. No hot chicks with a big check and a wide world of sports announcer at the finish just yet, so no real incentive to cheat. I don't know for sure, but I don't think Jen has managed to spin her success into a paying job yet, let alone fame and fortune. SPOT or similar will become standard at some point, just not yet. Really for the most part up until the last few years, you were likely a personal friend, or friend of a friend, of Peter Bakwin, you told him what you did, and he posted a record. As the community grows, so will the requirements. Skeptic's are welcome and totally natural. Brett Maune was a nobody when he got his record, a solid review of the proof was fully justified, but after that- it's just plain hate. Not saying anyone here falls into that category, but there are some evil folks out there no matter what you do, and "athletes" like you just mentioned will always exist to keep us skeptical.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:37
I never intended to imply that I know what day Matt started. I have no idea. In an earlier post I simply mentioned that it might not be a good idea for anyone to report any real-time Matt sightings on this thread.
Sorry- mixing up my sources- remembered your intentions- which were the main thing. Sorry for putting words in your mouth!
Pedaling Fool
07-24-2013, 16:41
FWIW, if I were doing something like this I'd want people to know my minute-to-minute status. But that's not to say I'm being critical of how Matt is doing this.
BTW, Lance is no different than anyother cyclists, other than being a major ass hole; other than that they're all a bunch of druggies and I mean all of them.
max patch
07-24-2013, 16:46
BTW, Lance is no different than anyother cyclists, other than being a major ass hole; other than that they're all a bunch of druggies and I mean all of them.
I agree and I believe Lance when he said he "had" to drug to be competitive as everyone was doing it. My problem with Lance is that he threw all his friends under the bus as he continued his lies.
Pedaling Fool
07-24-2013, 16:47
Yeap, that was his major fault. The drugs are bad but that was the culture, you want to race in Europe you had to do it.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 16:49
I'd use the SPOT, but only give out real time updates to my wife- anybody who wants to know can go through her. I honestly hadn't thought much about the delay until Matt, I'd probably go that route too. I would go with the business cards, mostly so I didn't feel like a total A$$ all day when I couldn't stop to chat. At least I could hand out a card telling folks what I was doing and apologizing for not stopping. Of course now I'm just a rambling daydreamer...
Odd Man Out
07-24-2013, 17:03
I wonder if signing every trail register be a good low-tech verification strategy (at least the ones close enough to the trail to not slow you down too much)?
hikerboy57
07-24-2013, 17:10
I wonder if signing every trail register be a good low-tech verification strategy (at least the ones close enough to the trail to not slow you down too much)? most trail registers are at the shelters too far off the trail
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 17:13
Anything and everything you can get your hands on, with the exception of tagging (those folks should be beaten severely) makes good sense IMO. I considered buying a cheapie rubber stamp for just such a purpose.
max patch
07-24-2013, 17:17
I considered buying a cheapie rubber stamp for just such a purpose.
Nah, everything needs to be personally hand signed so we can do extensive handwriting analysis verification. :)
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 17:18
Foiled again...
hikerboy57
07-24-2013, 19:02
Nah, everything needs to be personally hand signed so we can do extensive handwriting analysis verification. :)
ez pass would work.
or a spot.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 22:13
ez pass would work.
or a spot.
I'll stick with the spot- next speed hiker who mentions installing ez pass (called I-Pass here though) will likely be murdered by the purists.
hikerboy57
07-24-2013, 22:18
I'll stick with the spot- next speed hiker who mentions installing ez pass (called I-Pass here though) will likely be murdered by the purists.
might be a problem keeping a secure signal if he doesnt want to be tracked.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 22:23
Radio collar then? We can tranquilizer dart any prospective speed hiker; height, weight, pack weight, BMI, teeth, coat quality, anal probe, you know the basics... then we'll have the info we need and accurate up to date tracking.
Odd Man Out
07-24-2013, 22:26
Radio collar then? We can tranquilizer dart any prospective speed hiker; height, weight, pack weight, BMI, teeth, coat quality, anal probe, you know the basics... then we'll have the info we need and accurate up to date tracking.
I like it. Then we could relocate them to a remote area where they won't hurt anyone.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 23:02
I say we either have to put them down outright, or move them to a preserve. If we provide them with a curvy looped trail about three miles long they'll never even notice, they don't carry a map. Put up some signs for shelters (no need to build the shelter, speed hikers just pass them), put in some trees but probably just one type to cut costs. No need for animals, speed hikers wouldn't see them. We could install two "springs", probably just a hose running over a rock, if we alternate the timers on them should be good enough to keep them fooled. About nighttime we could have a little bump in the trail we could reveal for them to pass out at. Perhaps a few scarecrows on popup timers for them to pass up on the trail to keep their spirits up. It should work out relatively well, I believe Lone Wolf would contribute generously to starting a sanctuary. Maybe HikerBoy has some tranquilizer darts at the café, I know he doesn't have an actual gun to shoot them, but I would imagine throwing darts has to be easy after years of tossing bullets.
full conditions
07-24-2013, 23:05
So EVERYBODY on this thread thinks he's gonna set the record except me and LW? Really?
I'm gonna go way out on a limb here and guess that Matt's not losing tons of sleep over what you and lw think. Just a guess.
Just Bill
07-24-2013, 23:23
I'm gonna go way out on a limb here and guess that Matt's not losing tons of sleep over what you and lw think. Just a guess.
He mentioned Lone Wolf specifically on day 29. Likely he won't mention Max for a few weeks. Otherwise fairly solid guess.
frisbeefreek
07-25-2013, 00:01
I trust Matt. I fast hiked the AT and have some understanding of what drives him - It's a personal challenge to see how far the body & mind can be pushed.
To answer the naysayers, most camera phone photos are geotagged. For me, taking a bunch of photos of yourself at various landmarks throughout the day (such as shelters or the sign to the shelter) would be more than adequate. Endeavors like this are always going to rely on the honor system (but a little verification never hurt).
Odd Man Out
07-25-2013, 00:53
Here are some updates. Daleville is a goal for day 40.
22955
37
40.10
1348
36.43
Stealth Site
I've stayed there, nice dry camp at the top of the hill just off the trail.
[QUOTE=Odd Man Out;1506131]Short answer for me, No. He is posting a video log every day, many with references to locations and encounters that could be verified by the paranoid after the fact if they really wanted. Is it possible he has someone giving him rides to carefully selected trail heads each day to fake this evidence? Of course. Is reasonable to think this is happening? I don't think so.
Sadly Odd Man; this exact scenario is what happened to Brett- he did video records, several a day actually, which were tirelessly reviewed (along with photos) by several trail experts who all verified that the timing, light, shadows, ad nauseam all matched up with his report.
JB,
you just don't get it. People will do anything to get the fortune that will come from setting the at record. And the fame to walk into any bar and get free drinks. Oh wait, there isn't any fortune and little fame outside a VERY small circle of hikers. I also remember the Brett affair, very sad, but that was eventual put to rest. If someone wanted to cheat on a record it would be a lot easier to do on a 100 yard dash. I just ran it in eight seconds. Give me a record.
one thing that is odd though..... I haven't seen a single hiker mention him in a journal. That's strange because I saw several reports of Swami heading up the PCT on his way to the Triple crown record. maybe Matt is sitting on a couch and posting video reports while eating Cheetos.
finally, I am really hoping Matt sets this record. Why? Then Mr Wolfe won't be able to say that nobody can beats Wards record which is silly. And JB, you have my vote as keeper of the speed hiker forum, lets make you a mod to stop the "I don't know why they don't stop and smell the roses" comments.
Just Bill
07-26-2013, 00:06
Well what a nice thing to say- on my birthday too! I believe the post is admirably held, and an ego-maniac like me should not be trusted with that kind of power anyway. I would like to put myself forth as the HikerMomKD of the speed hike forum. Yeah everyone! (Lone Wolf, that's your cue: "You're no HikerMomKD") :D Seriously- LW I wish you would speak up a hair more, your veiled references and occasional slips clearly reveal your involvement in the speedy community at one point. It's pretty small right now, had to be even smaller before. Grumpy, grouchy, you young snots aren't worth my time- I don't know. I do know, if you opened up, you probably have some very good things to share, I for one would like to hear them. Horton isn't exactly rotting away in some hellhole, his records were barely beaten a decade ago. He's still relevant, so is Ward, so is Jardine, so is Colin Fletcher, Bill Mason, and Horace Kephart. I didn't join this site until recently for a lot of reasons- reading a thread from people who think the Doylies represent Doyle and reading ****-heads rip on Doyle is disgusting. Like him or not it's disrespectful. I get it. I get the bad taste everyone has in their mouth over the last few years with folks chasing a record- I'm just a wannabe too. I did join this site because there are people I can learn from, and occasionally people I can teach. Read that trip report I posted- see if it's worth your time. Worst case it'll give you a boatload of ammo to rip me up and down if you like. Best case, dust off your knowledge, stories, and wisdom- I'd like to learn something- even if it's just how much I don't know.:welcome
Ground Control
07-26-2013, 00:22
one thing that is odd though..... I haven't seen a single hiker mention him in a journal. That's strange because I saw several reports of Swami heading up the PCT on his way to the Triple crown record. maybe Matt is sitting on a couch and posting video reports while eating Cheetos.
I was wondering about this - perhaps the very few he has mentioned his quest to (like the section hikers that gifted him a couple hiker meals in the most recent video) have been sworn to secrecy. Same thing with the mail drops - use a pseudonym perhaps?
Matt resigned from his NC teaching position in early June, working out the end of the school year. (He wrote this for all to see on his blog.) That doesn't leave much of a window to be sitting at home with the Cheetos already. From his pace and camping log, he might very well be limiting interaction with other campers; perhaps staying in shelters only when they are empty and stealth camping otherwise. Certainly not much time for chatting at the pace he is keeping...
I truly expected him to walk right past me over the last few days. If he did, I'd honor his desire for secrecy. Perhaps others are doing the same?
A final thought is that a shockingly small percentage of the hikers on the AT even know about his attempt. I brought it up with over ten hikers (and one game warden) over the past week on the trail and NOBODY had heard of him or his attempt. Not one. Surely this level of anonymity helps him stay off the radar.
Go, Matt Go!
Just Bill
07-26-2013, 00:38
I think you nailed it fella- nobody knows who he is, if he's not telling.. or if folks are helping him keep quiet we won't find out until the end. I think, if needed, they'll be some folks come out of the woodwork. SOBO is relatively lonely too, just passing ships for the most part. Lots of hikers still on the trail too, although a few visit, the vast majority don't hit this site until after their hike is over and they are home- if they come here at all..
Odd Man Out
07-26-2013, 09:04
So he made it to Daleville on day 40, but fell and banged his knee. We shall have to wait to see if that slows him down.
I think you nailed it fella- nobody knows who he is, if he's not telling.. or if folks are helping him keep quiet we won't find out until the end. I think, if needed, they'll be some folks come out of the woodwork. SOBO is relatively lonely too, just passing ships for the most part. Lots of hikers still on the trail too, although a few visit, the vast majority don't hit this site until after their hike is over and they are home- if they come here at all..
What, his daily videos aren't proof enough he's actually hiking the trail?
I'm not accusing Matt of anything just wondering out loud about the lack of transparency. If he makes it I'll take him at his word.
I think at some point a Spot or something similar as mentioned by Just Bill will be routine for people out for records.
If accepting someones word was all that was required then Lance Armstrong would still be on the bike and Ryan Braun would be playing baseball tonite.
Could be the SPOT tracking is released AFTER the hike.
After what happened to Nature Boy on his attempt, sure some people would rather be cautious.
re: moderator
While I am the moderator of this forum, I rarely edit/delete posts. The rose sniffer crowd deserves sarcasm instead if they post on a speed hiking forum. ;)
Could be the SPOT tracking is released AFTER the hike.
After what happened to Nature Boy on his attempt, sure some people would rather be cautious.
So what happened to Nature Boy? As a newbie I am not familiar with the story and I am sitting here wondering really what the big deal is and what the worse case scenario is of people knowing exactly where (and when) you are along the trail. Seems like there are tons of trail journals and blogs and other stuff out there from hikers that if there was a significant safety issue those would disappear pretty quickly.
I personally am pulling for Matt and wish there was more to read/see of his hike. Anyone that questions if his run is real I would immediately question their accomplishments (Can you prove you actually thru-hiked every mile of the trail? Even a spot could be faked by having two or three or ten people hike the trail and carry it if you really want to get crazy conspiracy theorist here). But really who cares who believes what? It will be an amazing accomplishment for himself and that's what its all about. As others have mentioned I doubt he'll get a parade upon returning home or really any recognition from anyone outside a small group so to think there is some motivation to fake this all is ridiculous. Good luck Matt! Keep it up!!
jersey joe
07-26-2013, 10:21
Saftey is certainly a big reason for delaying his exact location. But, I think another reason is that he doesn't want hoards of people meeting him at road crossings with trail magic, thus degrading the fact that he is attempting an unsupported thru hike.
So what happened to Nature Boy?
Got the crap beat out of him.
http://www.vftt.org/forums/showthread.php?40563-Speed-hiker-attacked-during-record-attempt-on-the-Appalachian-trail
While many hikers keep journals, quite a few publish the dates well after they left the place (solo females esp).
Saftey is certainly a big reason for delaying his exact location. But, I think another reason is that he doesn't want hoards of people meeting him at road crossings with trail magic, thus degrading the fact that he is attempting an unsupported thru hike.
Good point. Sure that factors in, too.
Lone Wolf
07-26-2013, 10:27
Got the crap beat out of him.
allegedly.,.....
Just Bill
07-26-2013, 10:28
Nature Boy- read some of the old threads if you like- but long story short his attempt was on track and looking good when he had an incident in Waynesboro with some locals and got beat up, the incident ended his hike. More to the story, before my time too, but most of it is negative speculation (perhaps justified, but not worth debating). Personal Security- the key word there is PERSONAL- Matt's hike, Matt's choice- not worth a debate. Mags- is awesome. I like your style sir! Matt- Sending a mental hug, I saw a pic of him and he just had a rough day. 22984
Did Nature Boy happen to broadcast his exact whereabouts or follow a detailed itinerary? Seems to me most speedhikers of the sort would have a fairly flexible schedule and anyone finding them on any given night is a shot in the dark. (pun unintentional)
allegedly.,.....
Allegedly or not, it was highly publicized and made people re-think about being very specific with their daily postings (c.f. solo females)
Did Nature Boy happen to broadcast his exact whereabouts or follow a detailed itinerary? Seems to me most speedhikers of the sort would have a fairly flexible schedule and anyone finding them on any given night is a shot in the dark. (pun unintentional)
With real time updates via twitter and facebook, probably easy (too easy) to figure out where a person may be on a given day.
Don't get me wrong - it is completely up to Matt to post/share as much or as little information as he chooses and I am not at all being critical of his choice of privacy. Personally I am not on Facebook because I don't like the idea of sharing every detail of my life with anyone so I agree with his choice. Reading over a little of the Nature Boy stuff, if they knew his name they were out to get him and not a random act of violence. It all just seems a little contradictory to the widely held belief that the trail is a safe place - no need for a gun or other forms of personal protection. There are millions of people all over the world posting their exact location, times, pictures, etc.. on facebook, twitter, and criminals are not picking them off one by one. So is the trail real that much more dangerous or fellow hikers that much more criminally inclined than rest of society than we are lead to believe?
There are millions of people all over the world posting their exact location, times, pictures, etc.. on facebook, twitter, and criminals are not picking them off one by one. So is the trail real that much more dangerous or fellow hikers that much more criminally inclined than rest of society than we are lead to believe?
A good question, but not really the thread to discuss it. Perhaps start a new thread on the Sensitive Trail Issues sub-forum? :)
Just Bill
07-26-2013, 11:28
The trail is infinitely less dangerous than the rest of our lives. Most "trail" incidents are actually town incidents. The odds of death by vending machine are 1-112 million. The odds of winning the powerball are 1-175 million- yet people win nearly every week. Not saying that's what happened, but if you roll into a town and mouth off to some locals, hit on their girl, insult their favorite song on the jukebox, have pigtails, or whatever other random event you care to pick- you'll likely be beat up. Ladies should exhibit the same caution when traveling solo weather walking on nearby Michigan Avenue, or on trail. Walking the 22 mile lakeshore trail downtown is more likely to result in physical harm than hiking the 2200 miles of the AT. Some folks stroll down the lakeshore without a care in the world, some folks carry a gun and suspect everyone with more than a suntan of rape, pillage, and murder. Folks is folks. Life is dangerous, the odds of dying at some point in your life are roughly 1 in 1 (That Jesus fella skews the odds a bit).
Yeah Mags, didn't mean to hijack the thread at all, but it seems there is more speculation as to the validity of Matt's hike then anything else. Lets get some more charts and graphs up here of his progress and put to rest all the conspiracy theories!
There are a couple of reasons that he may not want his location known.
1) Safety. I had read an article that described Matt getting a shotgun pulled on him on a previous record attempt.
2) Efficiency. If his location was known he would have more people out to meet him, cutting into his hiking time. I saw this happen with Scott Williamson. Between the two hiker ahead of us and the two of us we talked with Scott for a good twenty minutes. With the easier access on the AT it would be even a bigger issue. Read through Natureboys Whiteblaze thread. It talks about people meeting him at many road crossings.
3) It could be he doesn't want the trail magic that would come as a result of people being able to plan his arrival at a particular place. Could others question how self supported his hike was if he had 100 trail magic opportunities?
Which of these three, or perhaps others apply to Matt? Hopefully he will succeed in his effort and we will learn more details of the how and whys. But until then I hope his body and mind stays strong.
Just Bill
07-26-2013, 11:47
I think we've had a healthy stomping out of such issues in the last day or so, nature of the beast and we needed to get them out of the way I suppose. Only burned up a page or so. Steady progress I think. Rose sniffing, speed hikes are stupid, this record is impossible, Slow Down- except for a few diehards we're done with that. Trail security, record keeping, conspiracy, details of the hike, fame and fortune- that's progress in my book, we may even be moving into something rarely seen... Positive comments, what an achievement, Can't wait to see, and maybe if we're really lucky- We're all just backpackers supporting a fellow backpacker doing something amazing.
Odd Man Out
07-26-2013, 11:49
Saftey is certainly a big reason for delaying his exact location. But, I think another reason is that he doesn't want hoards of people meeting him at road crossings with trail magic, thus degrading the fact that he is attempting an unsupported thru hike.
At the risk of getting back on track :rolleyes:, I observed that Matt has befitted from a number of trail magic events, but reported no incident that it was due to well intentioned celebrity stalkers hunting him down. Rather it seemed to be ordinary trail magic available to all, such as a cooler of Cokes at a trail head or some leftover MH meals from weekend warriors who over packed.
max patch
07-26-2013, 11:51
Yeah Mags, didn't mean to hijack the thread at all, but it seems there is more speculation as to the validity of Matt's hike then anything else. Lets get some more charts and graphs up here of his progress and put to rest all the conspiracy theories!
I challenge you to find one post in this thread where someone has claimed that Matt is somehow cheating.
I challenge you to find one post in this thread where someone has claimed that Matt is somehow cheating.
And if you fail, arrant knave, I challenge ye to a duel! (draws sword)
jersey joe
07-26-2013, 12:29
At the risk of getting back on track :rolleyes:, I observed that Matt has befitted from a number of trail magic events, but reported no incident that it was due to well intentioned celebrity stalkers hunting him down. Rather it seemed to be ordinary trail magic available to all, such as a cooler of Cokes at a trail head or some leftover MH meals from weekend warriors who over packed.
Yes, I would consider an "ordinary" amount of trail magic in-line with an unsupported thru hike.
derekthered
07-26-2013, 22:29
Just playing devils advocate here; we don't know when he started, we don't know wheres he hiking, doesn't the lack of transparency bother anyone? Keeping your location private is understandable when you are Joe Blow out for a day/week/month/thru, but not so much if you are out for a record.
I hiked with Matt and his dog Uwharrie for several days back in 2007 during my thru. He's a great guy, a fantastic athlete and I wouldn't doubt his integrity for a second. I'm sure he'll update everyone with all the info they want/need when this is over.
fredmugs
07-26-2013, 22:37
Got the crap beat out of him.
http://www.vftt.org/forums/showthread.php?40563-Speed-hiker-attacked-during-record-attempt-on-the-Appalachian-trail
While many hikers keep journals, quite a few publish the dates well after they left the place (solo females esp).
Good point. Sure that factors in, too.
Hahaha. Assumption is he was "targeted" because it happened so far away from any other witnesses. Nature Boy should run for Congress!
Lone Wolf
07-26-2013, 23:22
saw matt around 6 PM in Damascus tonite. was on his way to the brewery then was gonna cover some more miles
Hahaha. Assumption is he was "targeted" because it happened so far away from any other witnesses. Nature Boy should run for Congress!
As I said, whether it happened or not, the main point is that people are now more careful about posting updates because of what was reported. Having said that, any reason why you seem to gain so much joy from bringing this upmost often? Think you may need a different hobby. :)
I watched a couple of Matt's videos and to anyone that's familiar with the trail can tell where he is. Most of the time he's very specific.
Yesterday he posted Day 40 from Daleville and earlier he was spotted in Damascus, so his videos seem to be about a week behind. With about 12 days to go he should shave 1.5 days off of Ward's record.
Pretty amazing when you think about it and an incredible effort so far regardless of the record.
Since we now know where he is, more or less, any chance of getting what day he is on, today, Saturday? I hope for his sake he doesn't get a bunch of bothersome hangers-on or targeted trail magic - I respect his goal and intent. All best wishes for a safe journey and reasonable weather the rest of the way.
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 08:25
Driver...If you take 4 lefts, and 4 rights, even though your figure 8 is longer than a circle we're still back at the same place:D I know a very sly individual put you there. We can all probably take pretty solid guesses where he's at right now but we all agreed not to. I could clearly see in his day 40 post that he was in room 237 at the HJ but that's as far as I'll go with my detection abilities. Good news- day 41,42,43 just posted this morning and he just cleared Pearisburg. Assuming he beats 60 there are 17 posts to go, assuming he's a week or so behind in his posting- We'll all know in about a week or so one way or the other! Where ever (and whenever) he is- Go Matt Go!
Lone Wolf
07-27-2013, 09:20
he's about 20 miles south of damascus right now
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 09:23
Did you get a chance to see him LW?
Driver...If you take 4 lefts, and 4 rights, even though your figure 8 is longer than a circle we're still back at the same place:D I know a very sly individual put you there. We can all probably take pretty solid guesses where he's at right now but we all agreed not to.
Sorry, I didn't agree to anything. I've noticed several times you've tried to shape the debate, or ignore it completely. I'm not buying. This is a big thing, it's an incredible record that's stood for nearly twenty years. If someone is out to get Matt they'll find him without my guesstimates.
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 10:46
Sorry, I didn't agree to anything. I've noticed several times you've tried to shape the debate, or ignore it completely. I'm not buying. This is a big thing, it's an incredible record that's stood for nearly twenty years. If someone is out to get Matt they'll find him without my guesstimates.
Agreed on all fronts including failure to agree by all parties, just trying to respect his wishes. LW also failed to agree, agrees with you, and posted his thoughts. Free country, free site, free for all to speak their mind- agreed. On this matter there should be one solid opinion- Matt's. That said, once he's off-trail, with good news or bad- all bets are off, but in the meantime it's so close and so exciting that I'd hate to see anything happen. I know we aren't exactly a worldwide source for evil-doers- but why risk it? If LW is accurate, he's about 11 ish days from the finish- worst case scenario we wait two more weeks. It's been 20 years, what's two more weeks out of respect for the fella making the effort...
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 11:03
LW- never been a crew member, never been involved in one. My limited understanding only- number one rule when crewing a runner: support the runner? My only intention when shaping the debate, nothing personal towards either of you.
Lone Wolf
07-27-2013, 11:25
LW- never been a crew member, never been involved in one. My limited understanding only- number one rule when crewing a runner: support the runner? My only intention when shaping the debate, nothing personal towards either of you.
huh?........
Lone Wolf
07-27-2013, 11:25
Did you get a chance to see him LW?
yeah........
huh?........
I think he means he's being protective of Matt and would prefer no live updates or speculation of where Matt may be at any given time.
Odd Man Out
07-27-2013, 11:43
Here are some recent updates. Also, It is interesting to note that of the three benchmarks my spreadsheet tracks, Matt has never bee more than 30.1 miles ahead or 11.6 miles behind MM's suggested itinerary, which is closer than the other benchmarks. I believe MM's itinerary was based on a strategy of overnighting at good resupply points. It doesn't seem that Matt is always using that as he sometimes will resupply/get mail drops in the middle of the day and keep hiking. That may also throw of JB's calculations a bit, since they were derived from MM's typical miles per hiking day, which I think was based on days with no resupply stops.
22995
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 11:47
I think he means he's being protective of Matt and would prefer no live updates or speculation of where Matt may be at any given time.
I would prefer 24 hour coverage on ESPN- but Matt prefers no live updates. His hike, his rules- that's all I wish to support.
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 11:55
Odd Man- He's down 2.5 on my schedule, but that schedule also has 29.8 extra miles (do to rounding and whole days), and has him finishing on day 59, leaving day 60 open (zero). Technically it's a 58 day schedule I suppose, especially considering his start tactic. I liked it because it allowed for a "problem" or a bad day, which Matt has seen blessedly few of. Long story short- even in my schedule Matt's not behind a 60 day pace, he's 27.3 ahead of a 58!
Lone Wolf
07-27-2013, 12:15
he'll finish 10-12 days from today
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 14:06
he'll finish 10-12 days from today
I have not been here long, so I could be horribly wrong. However, quite sincerely and without a gram of sarcasm, I believe that's the nicest thing I've ever heard you say.
Did you get a chance to see him LW?
Hey, JB. If you double back in this thread, you'll see that LW posted about seeing him in Damascus yesterday.
Just Bill
07-27-2013, 14:12
I did miss it. TY
I did miss it. TY
No sweat. I miss still all the time, especially in very active threads. :D
Lone Wolf
07-27-2013, 14:25
I have not been here long, so I could be horribly wrong. .
you are......
you are......
Well, he's not needlessly, pointlessly mean, so he's got that going for him. :)
Here are some recent updates. Also, It is interesting to note that of the three benchmarks my spreadsheet tracks, Matt has never bee more than 30.1 miles ahead or 11.6 miles behind MM's suggested itinerary, which is closer than the other benchmarks.
It's kind of you to point this out. But though he has been fairly near my hypothetical itinerary on this hike, Matt's previous two thru-hikes of the AT have definitely enabled him to hike "smarter" than my itinerary. For instance, when I look at what I worked up I'm scratching my head now at what I possibly could have been thinking when I had a hiker covering the 100.6 miles from Gorham to Glencliff in just three days with a full backpack. I think Matt saw this problem coming and made a point of getting to Gorham one day quicker than my plan so he could take almost four days instead of three getting through the Whites. Likewise, it wasn't my finest hour when I had a hiker covering all 50.3 miles from Damascus to Kincora in just a day (the first 40 miles are pretty easy but the last ten, dealing with Pond Mountain and Laurel Fork, are tougher, in my recent experience) and it looks like Matt has taken care of this by hiking on a few hours past Damascus on the day Lone Wolf saw him so he could shorten up that day into Kincora.
Matt, I'm still wishing you the best. You are one tough dude. Hang in there this last dozen days or so.
If LW is accurate, he's about 11 ish days from the finish- worst case scenario we wait two more weeks. It's been 20 years, what's two more weeks out of respect for the fella making the effort...
Maybe you can pretend Matt's still on the trail three days after breaking the record, or is somewhere near Pearisburg as we speak, but I think it pointless.
Lone Wolf
07-28-2013, 13:28
he'll probably be around Doll Flats/Hump mtn. area tonite
Odd Man Out
07-28-2013, 19:14
Day 43, 7.7 mi N of VA 606, VA, 1572.7 miles, 34.7 miles for the day
Day 44, 7.8 mi S of VA 615, VA, 1613.7 miles, 41.0 miles for the day
Lone Wolf
07-28-2013, 21:08
Day 43, 7.7 mi N of VA 606, VA, 1572.7 miles, 34.7 miles for the day
Day 44, 7.8 mi S of VA 615, VA, 1613.7 miles, 41.0 miles for the day
he's in tennessee. what good is this info? you're a few days behind
Just Bill
07-28-2013, 22:39
he's in tennessee. what good is this info? you're a few days behind
He's odd man out, can't help himself I suppose. Deep down he's a nice guy and I think we should just forgive him for it.
Had a good but short meeting with Matt, he is plugging along....
Lone Wolf
07-29-2013, 07:29
Deep down he's a nice guy and I think we should just forgive him for it.
who's we? i don't know him and never said he wasn't a nice guy
jersey joe
07-29-2013, 08:30
Day 43, 7.7 mi N of VA 606, VA, 1572.7 miles, 34.7 miles for the day
Day 44, 7.8 mi S of VA 615, VA, 1613.7 miles, 41.0 miles for the day
he's in tennessee. what good is this info? you're a few days behind
Seeing Matt's mileage per day/total mileage as he progresses is interesting, even if it is a couple days old. Thanks Odd Man Out!
Any idea on how many times Matt has picked up water and dry camped?
Odd Man Out
07-29-2013, 10:23
By my count he has stayed in shelters on 13 nights, town/hostels for 7 nights, and stealth camped 24 nights. I don't know how many of the stealth sites may have been "dry" vs "wet". Also, let's not start yet another discussion of the term "stealth camping". Their are two definitions in common use. For some it means illegal camping. For others (including Matt's use) it means dispersed camping.
max patch
07-29-2013, 15:55
he's in tennessee. what good is this info? you're a few days behind
When he having his celebration party on top of Springer with family, friends, and those who figured out where he really was, WB will be reporting that he is entering the GSMNP.
When he having his celebration party on top of Springer with family, friends, and those who figured out where he really was, WB will be reporting that he is entering the GSMNP.
And that is perfectly fine.
By my count he has stayed in shelters on 13 nights, town/hostels for 7 nights, and stealth camped 24 nights. I don't know how many of the stealth sites may have been "dry" vs "wet". Also, let's not start yet another discussion of the term "stealth camping". Their are two definitions in common use. For some it means illegal camping. For others (including Matt's use) it means dispersed camping.
Yeah, when I say dry camp I mean stealth camping or dispersed camping. I'm more interested in how many times he pushed on after picking up water.
(I don't think it would be possible to camp illegally 23 times from ME to VA)
When he having his celebration party on top of Springer with family, friends, and those who figured out where he really was, WB will be reporting that he is entering the GSMNP.
ah yeap....
Just Bill
07-29-2013, 20:38
Day 45 posted going into Atkins, officially 3/4 of the way done.
Lone Wolf
07-29-2013, 20:42
Day 45 posted going into Atkins, officially 3/4 of the way done.
but today is like day 50ish. near Erwinish :)
Odd Man Out
07-29-2013, 20:58
but today is like day 50ish. near Erwinish :)
Isn't Erwinish one of Elves from Rivendell?
Just Bill
07-29-2013, 21:45
Nice Double Catch Odd Man! A hastily removed post (which I give him credit for removing) and correctly identifying Lord Elrond's keeper of the underbridge!
Just Bill
07-29-2013, 21:49
(I don't think it would be possible to camp illegally 23 times from ME to VA)
According to Map Man's extensive research; Many stoners camp illegally at least 23 times from Springer to Fontana. (I'm not one, despite all appearances to the contrary)
jersey joe
07-30-2013, 08:31
Day 45 posted going into Atkins, officially 3/4 of the way done.
So he is exactly done with 3/4 of the trail with 3/4 of his days up to 60...right on linear pace!
Violent Green
07-30-2013, 14:08
So, you can assume that he will try to do one really long finish day like others have done. I am thinking 58-ish days plus or minus .5 days. Ward's record is going down. All it needed was a legit contender.
Ryan
CrumbSnatcher
07-30-2013, 20:35
So, you can assume that he will try to do one really long finish day like others have done. I am thinking 58-ish days plus or minus .5 days. Ward's record is going down. All it needed was a legit contender.
RyanIMO-------------- Matt is setting a new Sobo record, Ward be still be the Nobo champ!
just think what ward's number would of been if he knew that he was in a race :-)
good luck MATT! I said 57.5 days, i think i will be close without going over.
watched enough price is right in my day
I thought i read once Matt sets the new record without hitching that everyone will have to follow suite(NO CARS) to break his record, if that's true? then how come Matt didn't hike Nobo like ward did?
rocketsocks
07-30-2013, 21:05
IMO-------------- Matt is setting a new Sobo record, Ward be still be the Nobo champ!
just think what ward's number would of been if he knew that he was in a race :-)
good luck MATT! I said 57.5 days, i think i will be close without going over.
watched enough price is right in my day
I thought i read once Matt sets the new record without hitching that everyone will have to follow suite(NO CARS) to break his record, if that's true? then how come Matt didn't hike Nobo like ward did?
You might could win both show cases :D
58.4
IMO-------------- Matt is setting a new Sobo record, Ward be still be the Nobo champ!
just think what ward's number would of been if he knew that he was in a race :-)
good luck MATT! I said 57.5 days, i think i will be close without going over.
watched enough price is right in my day
I thought i read once Matt sets the new record without hitching that everyone will have to follow suite(NO CARS) to break his record, if that's true? then how come Matt didn't hike Nobo like ward did?
Matt would have overall and SOBO and ward would still have NoBo.
atmilkman
07-30-2013, 21:12
IMO-------------- Matt is setting a new Sobo record, Ward be still be the Nobo champ!
just think what ward's number would of been if he knew that he was in a race :-)
good luck MATT! I said 57.5 days, i think i will be close without going over.
watched enough price is right in my day
I thought i read once Matt sets the new record without hitching that everyone will have to follow suite(NO CARS) to break his record, if that's true? then how come Matt didn't hike Nobo like ward did?
So this means JPD has the SOBO supported record leaving the NOBO supported up for grabs. Any idea what the NOBO supported record is?
Just Bill
07-30-2013, 21:14
Guess what the next poll will be...
max patch
07-30-2013, 21:16
Ward leonard for the AT Hall of Fame.
atmilkman
07-30-2013, 21:17
Guess what the next poll will be...
Another crock?
The trail Matt Kirk is hiking in 2013 is more than 30 miles longer and has fewer (easier) road walks than the trail that Ward Leonard hiked in 1990 (as amazing as that hike was). Matt Kirk doesn't need to have any "SOBO" asterisks attached to his hike.
Here's a link to a recent newspaper article about the remarkable Ward Leonard that refers to his 1990 record hike:
http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1896000034/Concord-man-takes-a-hike-into-record-books
hikerboy57
07-30-2013, 21:55
So this means JPD has the SOBO supported record leaving the NOBO supported up for grabs. Any idea what the NOBO supported record is?
what about the yoyo record?and the flipflop record?i think those are both up for grabs
Just Bill
07-30-2013, 22:00
Another crock?
of cream for us to churn into butter.
jersey joe
07-30-2013, 22:02
The trail Matt Kirk is hiking in 2013 is more than 30 miles longer and has fewer (easier) road walks than the trail that Ward Leonard hiked in 1990 (as amazing as that hike was). Matt Kirk doesn't need to have any "SOBO" asterisks attached to his hike.
Here's a link to a recent newspaper article about the remarkable Ward Leonard that refers to his 1990 record hike:
http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1896000034/Concord-man-takes-a-hike-into-record-books
Thanks for sharing Map Man. That is the first picture i've ever seen of Ward...First quotes from him too.
Just Bill
07-30-2013, 22:10
An excellent article, pops up from time to time. I wish someone would post that as a sticky on some of the threads, it's a good article and all that needs to be said.
Any idea what the NOBO supported record is?
Pete Palmer did the AT NOBO in 1999 in 48 days, 20 hours, 11 minutes. Andrew Thompson beat that time in a SOBO hike in 2005, before JPD bettered it (again SOBO). I have not heard of anyone doing a NOBO faster than Pete Palmer. Here is a link to the FKT discussion of the AT:
http://www.fastestknowntime.proboards.com/thread/6/appalachian-trail
atmilkman
07-30-2013, 22:25
Pete Palmer did the AT NOBO in 1999 in 48 days, 20 hours, 11 minutes. Andrew Thompson beat that time in a SOBO hike in 2005, before JPD bettered it (again SOBO). I have not heard of anyone doing a NOBO faster than Pete Palmer. Here is a link to the FKT discussion of the AT:
http://www.fastestknowntime.proboards.com/thread/6/appalachian-trail
It wont be an easy accomplishment either. That's some serious hiking too.
Pete Palmer did the AT NOBO in 1999 in 48 days, 20 hours, 11 minutes. Andrew Thompson beat that time in a SOBO hike in 2005, before JPD bettered it (again SOBO). I have not heard of anyone doing a NOBO faster than Pete Palmer. Here is a link to the FKT discussion of the AT:
http://www.fastestknowntime.proboards.com/thread/6/appalachian-trail
Rhanks for articles mapman
derekthered
07-30-2013, 22:31
Thanks for sharing Map Man. That is the first picture i've ever seen of Ward...First quotes from him too.
The ATC has Harpers Ferry pictures of Ward from 2 of his thru-hikes:
http://www.athikerpictures.org/hikers/5076
http://www.athikerpictures.org/hikers/6599
Lone Wolf
07-30-2013, 22:32
Pete Palmer did the AT NOBO in 1999 in 48 days, 20 hours, 11 minutes. Andrew Thompson beat that time in a SOBO hike in 2005, before JPD bettered it (again SOBO). I have not heard of anyone doing a NOBO faster than Pete Palmer. Here is a link to the FKT discussion of the AT:
http://www.fastestknowntime.proboards.com/thread/6/appalachian-trail
pete, i and another dude were on a golf course in jamestown, R.I. the year before Pete did his hike. we were discussing him goin' for the record i said to him he should go SOBO cuz he could get the hard stuff out of the way. he said no way, Horton's record was done NOBO. i was gonna be part of his support team that year but family crisis got in the way. i crewed andy thompson on his first attempt NOBO
Just Bill
07-30-2013, 22:55
pete, i and another dude were on a golf course in jamestown, R.I. the year before Pete did his hike. we were discussing him goin' for the record i said to him he should go SOBO cuz he could get the hard stuff out of the way. he said no way, Horton's record was done NOBO. i was gonna be part of his support team that year but family crisis got in the way. i crewed andy thompson on his first attempt NOBO
Can we start a thread where you drop the amusing act for awhile and share some of your stories? Or do we really need to come to town to hear a tale or two? We could call it the safe place. No one would be allowed to respond to your stories... not to protect others from you, but so you don't get tempted into getting sidetracked. While I agree there aren't many- there are a few who'd like to hear your stories. You can go back to being the big bad wolf on the other threads.
hikerboy57
07-30-2013, 22:56
Can we start a thread where you drop the amusing act for awhile and share some of your stories? Or do we really need to come to town to hear a tale or two? We could call it the safe place. No one would be allowed to respond to your stories... not to protect others from you, but so you don't get tempted into getting sidetracked. While I agree there aren't many- there are a few who'd like to hear your stories. You can go back to being the big bad wolf on the other threads.
i think you 'll have to visit. he types with one finger
Lone Wolf
07-30-2013, 22:59
Can we start a thread where you drop the amusing act for awhile and share some of your stories? Or do we really need to come to town to hear a tale or two? We could call it the safe place. No one would be allowed to respond to your stories... not to protect others from you, but so you don't get tempted into getting sidetracked. While I agree there aren't many- there are a few who'd like to hear your stories. You can go back to being the big bad wolf on the other threads.
huh? get over yourself. what have you done in the LD, record world. humor me. you talk a lot of trash
rocketsocks
07-30-2013, 23:00
i think you 'll have to visit. he types with one finger
I say we chip in and get him one of them there voice recognition thingy's, so's he could not only tell us bed time stories, but could tell others how to get somewhere quicker. :D
Just Bill
07-30-2013, 23:03
i think you 'll have to visit. he types with one finger
Not his thumb, not his index, not his ring finger...Shoot only two left (if you're in that thumbs count as fingers camp) Worse towns to visit I suppose- I hear there's a cheap shuttle service down there too. I read about it online and the ad said the driver was very nice, incredibly funny and the laughs come free. I'll bet Lone Wolf knows the guy that runs the shuttle and probably thinks he should charge more instead of feeding hikers entitlement issues.
CrumbSnatcher
07-30-2013, 23:25
The trail Matt Kirk is hiking in 2013 is more than 30 miles longer and has fewer (easier) road walks than the trail that Ward Leonard hiked in 1990 (as amazing as that hike was). Matt Kirk doesn't need to have any "SOBO" asterisks attached to his hike.
Here's a link to a recent newspaper article about the remarkable Ward Leonard that refers to his 1990 record hike:
http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1896000034/Concord-man-takes-a-hike-into-record-books
not all road walkin' is/was easier, the pavement can be real hard on the feet! lucky to not get hit by a chevy back in the day :-)
yes the trail is longer today, but with a lot more switchbacks too
good luck Matt!
stranger
07-31-2013, 04:28
If this record falls that is very impressive, however it does need to be recognized that this record is 23 years old, and how different backpacking was in 1990, the trail may be a tad longer nowdays, but I would love to know the weight difference between things like footwear and pack weight, Ward was a fairly lightweight hiker in the early 90's, but lightweight back then meant a completely different thing.
Great accomplishment to Matt, but it's not 1990, so kudos to Ward...and for his other records, like 3 thru-hikes in one year AND one of those hikes being the unsupported record...well for another few days at least!
T.S.Kobzol
07-31-2013, 05:04
Lol ...restraining order
Can we start a thread where you drop the amusing act for awhile and share some of your stories? Or do we really need to come to town to hear a tale or two? We could call it the safe place. No one would be allowed to respond to your stories... not to protect others from you, but so you don't get tempted into getting sidetracked. While I agree there aren't many- there are a few who'd like to hear your stories. You can go back to being the big bad wolf on the other threads.
.
sent from samsonite using tapioca 2
Odd Man Out
07-31-2013, 10:06
If this record falls that is very impressive, however it does need to be recognized that this record is 23 years old, and how different backpacking was in 1990, the trail may be a tad longer nowdays, but I would love to know the weight difference between things like footwear and pack weight, Ward was a fairly lightweight hiker in the early 90's, but lightweight back then meant a completely different thing.
Great accomplishment to Matt, but it's not 1990, so kudos to Ward...and for his other records, like 3 thru-hikes in one year AND one of those hikes being the unsupported record...well for another few days at least!
I agree! Ward's accomplishments were outstanding, and objectively, it seems obvious that what someone does today has no bearing on the accomplishments of the past.
In fact, one shouldn't have to emphasize the significance of previous records and record holders, yet we always feel compelled to do so. It seems to be human nature to think that breaking a record somehow diminishes the previous record and record holder. But that really is never true despite our tendency to think that way. I recall when Hank Aaron was getting ready to break Babe Ruth's career home run record. There was a lot of backlash against Aaron as people somehow offended to think that Ruth would be relegated to the dust heap of baseball history, which of course was wrong.
Odd Man Out
07-31-2013, 10:24
For those who want his official video blog info:
23038
I recall when Hank Aaron was getting ready to break Babe Ruth's career home run record. There was a lot of backlash against Aaron as people somehow offended to think that Ruth would be relegated to the dust heap of baseball history, which of course was wrong.
As much as Ward is the Babe Ruth of hiking, Aaron never had an asterisk next to his name the way Barry Bonds does, and neither will Matt.
Chart updated with Matt's latest released data:
23039
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2013, 11:01
Babe Ruth 714 home runs-----8,398 at-bats dead ball era
Hank Aaron 755 home runs-----12,364 at-bats smaller ball parks
theres no comparison to Ward & Matt, different times, different gear & direction's(sobo/nobo)
if they were out there together the same year, that would be something to watch :-)
hikerboy57
07-31-2013, 11:02
Babe Ruth 714 home runs-----8,398 at-bats dead ball era
Hank Aaron 755 home runs-----12,364 at-bats smaller ball parks
theres no comparison to Ward & Matt, different times, different gear & direction's(sobo/nobo)
if they were out there together the same year, that would be something to watch :-)
the house that ruth built is so named because of the ridiculously short right field fence.
theres no comparison to Ward & Matt, different times, different gear & direction's(sobo/nobo)
AT unsupported vs AT unsupported. Obviously there is a comparison. As Map Man has pointed out, the trail is over 30 miles longer now and there is less flat road walking. If Matt sets a record time, it's a record fair and square.
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2013, 11:50
when Ruth hit 29 home runs in 1919 he broke a 35 year old record, it wasn't just the short porch, it was the dead ball era. the balls were rock hard compared to the juiced up balls now a days.
most guys were not hitting homeruns at all back then
max patch
07-31-2013, 12:03
When Ruth hit 60 home runs in 1927 that was more than every other TEAM hit in the American League. Thats why he is considered the greatest home run hitter of all time.
max patch
07-31-2013, 12:07
If Matt sets a record time, it's a record fair and square.
Sure, but the record book will also show Ward as the fastest NOBO. If there was just "one" record the record book wouldn't have categories for "supported" or girls records.
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2013, 12:12
i have read many threads saying if you want to set a record "go south" it will be a little easier!
so lets not forget ole" Ward
Folks will always debate records. Asteriks will be added because anyone can add an asterik if they want to. Everyone is always wrong about records, accept for the people who agree with me.
fredmugs
07-31-2013, 12:19
When Ruth hit 60 home runs in 1927 that was more than every other TEAM hit in the American League. Thats why he is considered the greatest home run hitter of all time.
The Babe was on PEDs. Performance Enhancing (hot) Dogs. Some trainer today would probably ruin him.
CrumbSnatcher
07-31-2013, 12:28
only comparison is they are both hikers, SOBO &NOBO are 2 completely different hikes. so the trail is 30 miles longer, but with all the new trail & all the switchbacks the hiking is easier going. in 99' the trail went straight up places like McAfee knob by 2002 it was switch backed & much easier
max patch
07-31-2013, 12:37
The record book should have a Masters Category (like golf) and keep records for those over 50. At 53 years old Ward just might get in the books again.
just as i was saying before this attempt even started, there are just some people who will forever try and find some reason to claim that ward is the true record holder no matter what any else has or ever will do. i really don't get it. first it was everyone else "cheated" by using support crews, now its someone "cheated" by doing it in the opposite direction. get over it already.
max patch
07-31-2013, 13:18
now its someone "cheated" by doing it in the opposite direction. get over it already.
No one has said Matt has "cheated" by going SOBO. Matt will (apparently) hold the fastest overall unsupported hike and the fastest SOBO hike. Ward will hold the fastest NOBO hike. That does diminish Matts accomplishment at all.
Consider marathon racing. There is the fastest Boston marathon time. There is the fastest NY City marathon time. There is the fastest San Diego marathon time. There is also the fastest marathon time period. Which may or may not be one of the above.
No one has said Matt has "cheated" by going SOBO. Matt will (apparently) hold the fastest overall unsupported hike and the fastest SOBO hike. Ward will hold the fastest NOBO hike. That does diminish Matts accomplishment at all.
Consider marathon racing. There is the fastest Boston marathon time. There is the fastest NY City marathon time. There is the fastest San Diego marathon time. There is also the fastest marathon time period. Which may or may not be one of the above.
who holds fastest flip flop that began at HF sobo, then continued from HF nobo, that was began in the spring and was done while wearing minimalist footwear?
No one has said Matt has "cheated" by going SOBO. Matt will (apparently) hold the fastest overall unsupported hike and the fastest SOBO hike. Ward will hold the fastest NOBO hike. That does diminish Matts accomplishment at all.
Consider marathon racing. There is the fastest Boston marathon time. There is the fastest NY City marathon time. There is the fastest San Diego marathon time. There is also the fastest marathon time period. Which may or may not be one of the above.
who holds fastest flip flop that began at HF sobo, then continued from HF nobo, that was began in the spring and was done while wearing minimalist footwear?
Can you further define minimalist footwear? In a Flip Flop attempt the shoe of choice should be flip flops.
SOBO &NOBO are 2 completely different hikes.
It seems to me southbound thru-hikes have always been considered harder, apparently until it comes to speed hiking. Any perceived advantage, one way or another, is counter-balanced, the only real difference being the height of Katahdin and Springer. An extra 1500 feet takes 45 minutes tops.
It appears that you may perhaps think that the overall end to end time record is the most important record out there. Not everyone may agree with that. If one views this as an athletic record, it is important to note that every year we see superstars and record breakers in baseball, football, basketball, track and field, etc. More often than not they fizzle out after a year or two, their records are broken and after 10 years they are hardly remembers. One has to view accomplishments over a career. Not to diminish Matt's impressive accomplishment to date, but if someone else comes along in a year or two and breaks his record it becomes less important. Ward held the record for a very long time. It is only being broken now after significant technological advances have been made that allows folks to hike faster. In addition, Ward has a long list of other LD accomplishments. So only time will tell if Matt will continue be a superstar in the world of LD hiking.
My favorite record, and I'm not sure if it is even a record, is a guy whose name I don't know. He started at Spring weighing a tad over 350 lbs and only stood about 5'10. I met him in Maine and he had dropped 150 lbs. I thought surely this guy has broken a record. Fatest guy to start a thru, and finish.
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2013, 14:06
It seems to me southbound thru-hikes have always been considered harder, apparently until it comes to speed hiking. Any perceived advantage, one way or another, is counter-balanced, the only real difference being the height of Katahdin and Springer. An extra 1500 feet takes 45 minutes tops.
It's harder for the "uninitiated". As I understand it and it makes sense is that those with the legs it's best to get the harder terrain out of the way and then cruise. As opposed to doing that tougher terrain on "beaten legs".
It's harder for the "uninitiated". As I understand it and it makes sense is that those with the legs it's best to get the harder terrain out of the way and then cruise. As opposed to doing that tougher terrain on "beaten legs".
One would also be better conditioned when they hit the more difficult terrain. The last couple hundred miles may be harder in the south.
Can you further define minimalist footwear? In a Flip Flop attempt the shoe of choice should be flip flops.
also, is it the type of flip flop with the piece that goes between your big and second toes or is it more of a cheap sandal affair? i think the last guy who did it wore the sandal ones, so obviously to break the record youd have to do the same or it would just be a different record.
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2013, 14:52
One would also be better conditioned when they hit the more difficult terrain. The last couple hundred miles may be harder in the south.I don't want to sound as if I'm an expert in endurance events, hope one of the experts chimes in here, but WRT your first sentence...
By the time you get towards the end of an endurance event you've "peaked" in your performace capabilities and are on the downhill in performance, of course how well your conditioning is and how well you paced yourself factors in as well as other things, but since you've "peaked" and on the "downhill" you don't want to be left with the toughest part of the trail while still pushing yourself.
I'm not sure what you're saying in your second sentence, surely your not saying that the south is as hard or harder than the north, i.e. NH and Maine.
P.S. A normal thru-hike is not a physical endurance event, mental endurance, ok, but not a physical endurance event.
I'm a bulls fan. I think Jordan is the greatest of all time. However, I'm not to arrogant to think that LeBron will take the belt. Ward is Jordan right now. Matt is LBJ. Let's see how it plays out.
There are eras in sports. Hiking can be a sport to those who want it to be. I love the Jordan era more than anything. However, Im fully invested in the LeBron era.
Records are meant to fall.
Go bulls. Go D Rose.
I'm not sure what you're saying in your second sentence, surely your not saying that the south is as hard or harder than the north, i.e. NH and Maine.
I haven't quite figured the exact elevations but except for climbing Katahdin, the last 200 miles in the south has more elevation than the last 200 miles in Maine. Find a profile and add it up.
Pedaling Fool
07-31-2013, 17:01
I haven't quite figured the exact elevations but except for climbing Katahdin, the last 200 miles in the south has more elevation than the last 200 miles in Maine. Find a profile and add it up.
I haven't either and really have no intention. But with respect to elevations, while they may seem miniscule to us, that's only because we don't attempt to "set a record". You also have to remember there are many climbs on the AT, you really have to factor them all and not just compare altitudes.
So your example of 1,500 ft difference between Katahdin and Springer is faulty (in post 450), because elevation gain in a given distance is much greater on Katahdin, which makes it a completely different climb, especially for an endurance event, maybe not so much for us casual climbers. Also, it's not all about the last 200 miles, it's more about NH and Maine in general and to some extent Vermont.
P.S. Like I said before, I'm not an expert here; I'm sure there are other factors I'm missing.
hikerboy57
07-31-2013, 17:07
I haven't quite figured the exact elevations but except for climbing Katahdin, the last 200 miles in the south has more elevation than the last 200 miles in Maine. Find a profile and add it up.
I haven't either and really have no intention. But with respect to elevations, while they may seem miniscule to us, that's only because we don't attempt to "set a record". You also have to remember there are many climbs on the AT, you really have to factor them all and not just compare altitudes.
So your example of 1,500 ft difference between Katahdin and Springer is faulty (in post 450), because elevation gain in a given distance is much greater on Katahdin, which makes it a completely different climb, especially for an endurance event, maybe not so much for us casual climbers. Also, it's not all about the last 200 miles, it's more about NH and Maine in general and to some extent Vermont.
P.S. Like I said before, I'm not an expert here; I'm sure there are other factors I'm missing. if you include katahdin the last 200 miles are tougher than the first 200 down south.all roots rocks and bogs.elevation doesn't tell the whole story
MuddyWaters
08-01-2013, 00:09
Its easier to break/set a record, when you have a defined target.
Assuming Kirk breaks the record, could he have done just ONE more mile per day, 20 minutes, and come in a whole day faster?
Probably.
Ward probably could have as well.
Where you set your goal, depends to some extend on where the current record you want to break is. Mental barriers are created, and broken.
stranger
08-01-2013, 04:13
Its easier to break/set a record, when you have a defined target.
Assuming Kirk breaks the record, could he have done just ONE more mile per day, 20 minutes, and come in a whole day faster?
Probably.
Ward probably could have as well.
Where you set your goal, depends to some extend on where the current record you want to break is. Mental barriers are created, and broken.
Absolutely...so important. In skateboarding the 900 was considered impossible for 15 years, then Tony Hawk made it, now everyone can do it, why? Because they KNOW it CAN be done. So much of this is in our heads.
Setting the record means more to me than breaking it, Ward set the standard in 1990, Matt Kirk is an amazing hiker and deserves to break this record, but a little thing called context always needs to be considered. And let's not be naive...Andrew Skurka, Adam Bradley and Scott Williamson have all averaged over 40 miles per day for sustained periods of time, unsupported, on long-distance trails. If this record falls it's likely to fall again shortly.
What's cool is I remember talking about how to break this record in 1995, and it's just being done now. Amazing!
full conditions
08-01-2013, 09:25
I don't want to sound as if I'm an expert in endurance events, hope one of the experts chimes in here, but WRT your first sentence...
By the time you get towards the end of an endurance event you've "peaked" in your performace capabilities and are on the downhill in performance, of course how well your conditioning is and how well you paced yourself factors in as well as other things, but since you've "peaked" and on the "downhill" you don't want to be left with the toughest part of the trail while still pushing yourself.
I'm not sure what you're saying in your second sentence, surely your not saying that the south is as hard or harder than the north, i.e. NH and Maine.
P.S. A normal thru-hike is not a physical endurance event, mental endurance, ok, but not a physical endurance event.
That's just not true. Even at 17 and fit and healthy, I got into camp most days exhausted and beat to hell - especially during the first six weeks - then, just as I started feeling fitter came PA's rocks followed by new England's vertical trail segments - and I still finished most days exhausted. So..... Yeah, I'm saying a "normal" thru hike is a physical endurance event, and like any other endurance event, you need to husband your resources wisely and manage your time carefully. And, for what it's worth, I have run a few ultras so I do have a point of comparison.
The NoBo vs SoBo issue is silly especially with respect to the finish. A few hundred feet of elevation gain or slightly harder trail conditions or shorter days or more mosquitoes will not make a significant difference to the daily mileage. As far as when a hiker peaks, that is a question that I wondered after my fat thru hike in '11. I finished the PCT with two 40+ mile days with very little effort made to get the mileage in spite of being completely beat up from all of the snow earlier in the trip. When I hiked with Swami last year I asked him specifically about peaking in respect to hiking multiple trails back to back. I was really curious about whether I could have turned around at the Canadien border and headed south hiking as strong as I did NoBo. His perspective was that there was not the decline in performance after the first trail meaning he was pretty much in the by the end of of the first trail and beyond. How does it relate to this discussion? I believe the thinking that Matt will be on his last legs during the last days of the trip are wrong unless he goes full on during the final days and does a couple of 50+ mile days to finish, leaving it all on the trail.
Malto any chance of adding Matt's daily stats as an attachment? My eyesight sucks and it's hard to read some of the figures in the jpg. (post 373)
max patch
08-01-2013, 10:26
The NoBo vs SoBo issue is silly especially with respect to the finish. A few hundred feet of elevation gain or slightly harder trail conditions or shorter days or more mosquitoes will not make a significant difference to the daily mileage.
We are all just guessing. I'm hoping Matt goes NOBO next year - that'll tell the story.
We are all just guessing. I'm hoping Matt goes NOBO next year - that'll tell the story.
That would be cool, but I'm with Malto, I don't think direction is significant.
Just Bill
08-01-2013, 11:30
I had a chance to update my sheet, the blue days match Map Man's segments now, as of the last segment on day 47 (Waynesboro to Damascus) Matt is 24.2 miles behind my schedule. This schedule though is for a 59 day finish, and runs over 29.8 miles. Adjusting for that (bottom right) and considering his later start which would make my day 1 his day zero, Matt is 5.6 miles ahead of a 58 day finish as of day 47. Go Matt Go!23054
Odd Man Out
08-01-2013, 11:46
Malto any chance of adding Matt's daily stats as an attachment? My eyesight sucks and it's hard to read some of the figures in the jpg. (post 373)
Does this work?
Day
Destination
Total Miles
Daily Miles
Mean MPD
MPD Needed
Linear Target
Off Linear Target
Map Man MPD
MM Target
Off MM Target
Just Bill MPD
Just Bill Target
Off Just Bill Target
0
Baxter Peak
36.4
0
0
1
Wadleigh Stream Lean-to?, ME
38.2
38.2
38.2
36.4
36.4
1.8
39.3
39.3
-1.1
33.5
33.5
4.7
2
Logan Brook Lean-to, ME
71.4
33.2
35.7
36.5
72.9
-1.5
39.3
78.5
-7.1
33.5
67.0
4.4
3
Leeman Brook Lean-to, ME
111.5
40.1
37.2
36.4
109.3
2.2
39.3
117.8
-6.3
33.5
100.5
11.0
4
Caratunk, ME
151.2
39.7
37.8
36.3
145.7
5.5
30.1
147.9
3.3
33.5
134.0
17.2
5
Horn's Pond Lean-to, ME
183.1
31.9
36.6
36.4
182.2
0.9
30.1
178.0
5.1
33.5
167.5
15.6
6
Piazza Rock Lean-to, ME
218.6
35.5
36.4
36.4
218.6
0.0
30.1
208.1
10.6
28.5
196.0
22.6
7
Frye Notch Lean-to?, ME
261.4
42.8
37.3
36.3
255.0
6.4
30.1
238.1
23.3
28.5
224.5
36.9
8
Gorham, NH
298.3
36.9
37.3
36.3
291.5
6.8
30.1
268.2
30.1
28.5
253.0
45.3
9
Osgood Capsite, NH
325.2
26.9
36.1
36.5
327.9
-2.7
30.1
298.3
26.9
28.5
281.5
43.7
10
Zealand Falls Hut, NH
353.1
27.9
35.3
36.7
364.3
-11.2
33.5
331.8
21.3
26.0
307.5
45.6
11
Lonesome Lake Hut, NH
376.0
22.9
34.2
36.9
400.7
-24.7
33.5
365.4
10.6
26.0
333.5
42.5
12
0.7 mi S of NH 25A, NH
409.3
33.3
34.1
37.0
437.2
-27.9
33.5
398.9
10.4
26.0
359.5
49.8
13
Norwich, VT
443.7
34.4
34.1
37.1
473.6
-29.9
28.9
427.8
15.9
26.0
385.5
58.2
14
2.3 mi N of Stony Brook Shelter, VT
476.0
32.3
34.0
37.2
510.0
-34.0
34.2
462.0
14.0
35.4
420.9
55.1
15
2.0 mi N of VT 140, VT
510.0
34.0
34.0
37.2
546.5
-36.5
39.5
501.5
8.5
35.4
456.3
53.7
16
2.8mi N of Stratton Pond, VT
546.0
36.0
34.1
37.3
582.9
-36.9
39.5
541.0
5.0
35.4
491.7
54.3
17
Congdon Shelter, VT
582.5
36.5
34.3
37.3
619.3
-36.8
39.5
580.6
1.9
35.4
527.1
55.4
18
Dalton, MA
620.1
37.6
34.5
37.3
655.8
-35.7
39.5
620.1
0.0
35.4
562.5
57.6
19
Mount Wilcox South Lean-to, MA
656.5
36.4
34.6
37.3
692.2
-35.7
41.2
661.3
-4.8
35.4
597.9
58.6
20
3.5 mi N of US 7, CT
696.3
39.8
34.8
37.2
728.6
-32.3
41.2
702.4
-6.1
35.4
633.3
63.0
21
0.7 mi S of NY-CT border, NY
735.2
38.9
35.0
37.2
765.1
-29.9
39.9
742.3
-7.1
35.4
668.7
66.5
22
8.2 mi N of US 9, NY
772.5
37.3
35.1
37.2
801.5
-29.0
38.6
780.9
-8.4
35.4
704.1
68.4
23
202 mi S or NY 17, NY
808.5
36.0
35.2
37.2
837.9
-29.4
38.6
819.4
-10.9
39.0
743.1
65.4
24
Murray Property, NJ
846.8
38.3
35.3
37.2
874.4
-27.6
38.6
858.0
-11.2
39.0
782.1
64.7
25
1.1 mi N of Camp Road, NJ
885.0
38.2
35.4
37.2
910.8
-25.8
38.6
896.6
-11.6
39.0
821.1
63.9
26
9.8 mi S of PA 33, PA
922.0
37.0
35.5
37.2
947.2
-25.2
36.7
933.3
-11.3
39.0
860.1
61.9
27
12.9 mi N of Port Clinton, PA
960.0
38.0
35.6
37.1
983.7
-23.7
36.7
970.0
-9.9
39.0
899.1
60.9
28
4.1 mi S of PA 501, PA
1000.7
40.7
35.7
37.0
1020.1
-19.4
36.7
1006.6
-5.9
42.6
941.7
59.0
29
The Doyle, Duncannon, PA
1043.3
42.6
36.0
36.9
1056.5
-13.2
36.7
1043.3
0.0
42.6
984.3
59.0
30
0.7 mi N of PA 94, PA
1077.1
33.8
35.9
37.0
1093.0
-15.9
36.1
1079.4
-2.2
42.6
1026.9
50.2
31
Tumbling Run Shelters, PA
1117.7
40.6
36.1
36.8
1129.4
-11.7
36.1
1115.4
2.3
42.6
1069.5
48.2
32
3 mi S of US alt 40, MD
1152.5
34.8
36.0
36.9
1165.8
-13.3
36.1
1151.5
1.1
42.6
1112.1
40.4
33
Bear's Den Hostel, VA
1187.2
34.7
36.0
37.0
1202.2
-15.0
36.1
1187.5
-0.3
42.6
1154.7
32.5
34
Tom Floyd Wayside, VA
1223.7
36.5
36.0
37.0
1238.7
-15.0
37.7
1225.2
-1.5
42.6
1197.3
26.4
35
1.2 mi N of Big Meadows Wayside, VA
1265.8
42.1
36.2
36.8
1275.1
-9.3
37.7
1262.8
3.0
42.0
1239.3
26.5
36
Blackrock Hut, VA
1307.9
42.1
36.3
36.6
1311.5
-3.6
37.7
1300.5
7.4
42.0
1281.3
26.6
37
0.3 mi S of VA 64, VA
1348.0
40.1
36.4
36.4
1348.0
0.0
40.5
1341.0
7.0
42.0
1323.3
24.7
38
6.2 mi S of US 60, VA
1390.0
42.0
36.6
36.2
1384.4
5.6
40.5
1381.5
8.6
42.0
1365.3
24.7
39
1.5 mi N of Cornelius Creek Shelter, VA
1424.0
34.0
36.5
36.3
1420.8
3.2
40.5
1421.9
2.1
42.0
1407.3
16.7
40
Daleville, VA
1462.4
38.4
36.6
36.2
1457.3
5.1
40.5
1462.4
0.0
42.0
1449.3
13.1
41
VA 620, VA
1496.0
33.6
36.5
36.3
1493.7
2.3
34.4
1496.8
-0.8
42.0
1491.3
4.7
42
4.6 mi S of VA635, VA
1538.0
42.0
36.6
36.0
1530.1
7.9
34.4
1531.1
6.9
42.0
1533.3
4.7
43
7.7 mi N of VA 606, VA
1572.7
34.7
36.6
36.1
1566.6
6.1
34.4
1565.5
7.2
42.0
1575.3
-2.6
44
7.8 mi S of VA 615, VA
1613.7
41.0
36.7
35.8
1603.0
10.7
38.4
1603.9
9.8
42.0
1617.3
-3.6
45
Chatfield Shelter, VA
1648.2
34.5
36.6
35.8
1639.4
8.8
38.4
1642.3
6.0
42.0
1659.3
-11.1
46
Wise Shelter, VA
1685.9
37.7
36.7
35.7
1675.9
10.0
38.4
1680.6
5.3
42.0
1701.3
-15.4
47
Damascus, VA
1719.0
33.1
36.6
35.9
1712.3
6.7
38.4
1719.0
0.0
42.0
1743.3
-24.3
48
Watauga lake Shelter, TN (tentative)
1759.1
40.1
36.6
35.6
1748.7
10.4
50.4
1769.4
-10.3
39.9
1783.2
-24.1
Pedaling Fool
08-01-2013, 12:21
That's just not true. Even at 17 and fit and healthy, I got into camp most days exhausted and beat to hell - especially during the first six weeks - then, just as I started feeling fitter came PA's rocks followed by new England's vertical trail segments - and I still finished most days exhausted. So..... Yeah, I'm saying a "normal" thru hike is a physical endurance event, and like any other endurance event, you need to husband your resources wisely and manage your time carefully. And, for what it's worth, I have run a few ultras so I do have a point of comparison.If you noticed I said for a "normal thru-hike" as in the normal thru-hiker. This is only based on my oberservation of seeing people partying in town and other endeavors that display a burst of energy in town. If one is pushing one's self in an endurance event, they don't have the energy to party in town. It's all about hitting a plateau on one's hike and not really advancing much past that particular point. As for your particular hike, I can't speak to it, so if you say it was an endurance event, I'll take your word for it.
As for the whole NOBO vs. SOBO issue, let me re-emphasize. I don't know, this is just something I've heard and it makes sense to me. It seems the issue of "peaking" is key. If one could do a thru-hike in record time without peaking too early (regardless of direction) than I'd suppose it wouldn't matter in that situation, but if you peak, say 500 miles from the end I can see how that could make a difference.
However, I don't have the expertise to argue the point any further, but would be interested in hearing from others with more knowledge in this area.
Just Bill
08-02-2013, 10:37
New updates - Day 48 (confirmed) 40.1, Day 49 35.7, Day 50 37.3. Puts him 353.7 from the finish. Day 49 he mentions his weight loss catching up with him, hopefully he can hang in there his trip average is 36.6 MPD thus far, needs to hit 35.4 to beat it; going to be very close. Best of luck- Go Matt Go!
Pedaling Fool
08-02-2013, 10:48
New updates - Day 48 (confirmed) 40.1, Day 49 35.7, Day 50 37.3. Puts him 353.7 from the finish. Day 49 he mentions his weight loss catching up with him, hopefully he can hang in there his trip average is 36.6 MPD thus far, needs to hit 35.4 to beat it; going to be very close. Best of luck- Go Matt Go!Has he peaked?;)
Just Bill
08-02-2013, 11:06
Has he peaked?;)
Perhaps...Discuss it on the home stretch thread, "Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." Gandhi
New updates - Day 48 (confirmed) 40.1, Day 49 35.7, Day 50 37.3. Puts him 353.7 from the finish. Day 49 he mentions his weight loss catching up with him, hopefully he can hang in there his trip average is 36.6 MPD thus far, needs to hit 35.4 to beat it; going to be very close. Best of luck- Go Matt Go!
Stated differently, linear pace is 36.4 miles/day for 60 days. On day 50 he is 10.4 miles ahead of where he would be on a linear pace, so he could average a mile less per day and still finish on day 60.
Just Bill
08-02-2013, 11:42
Stated differently, linear pace is 36.4 miles/day for 60 days. On day 50 he is 10.4 miles ahead of where he would be on a linear pace, so he could average a mile less per day and still finish on day 60.
Mathematics- when two separate formulas generate the same answer, you've found the right one! Thanks Jeff!
For the last week or so do you think Matt will have the legs to push steady 40's? I'm thinking he may be able to shave a day off his current pace.
Odd Man Out
08-02-2013, 12:07
On Day 49 he admitted to having a bad day. He speculates due to low energy and weight loss. On day 50 he said he felt much better after some calorie loading. He also said his spirits were lifted by the "eye candy" of Roan. Maybe you can smell the roses and speed hike. Well, at least look at the roses.
Odd Man Out
08-02-2013, 12:11
Towns Slow You Down.
I was looking at Matt's daily miles. When you highlight his ten slowest days (aren't spreadsheets wonderful) you see that four of these were in NH. The rest (except for day 2) were either the day after a town stop, or (in the case of Damascus) the day of a town stop. In fact every town stop except Dalton was followed by or coincided with a slow day.
Just Bill
08-02-2013, 12:12
Not sure where he started from, but he said he was down to 140 pounds, you can really see his collar bones popping in his latest posts, he may be on fumes. He's also been remarkably consistent thus far without the wild swings in daily miles many other record setters seem to have. His discipline has been unreal as well, he stopped with daylight left on several occasions, and recently was arising ultra early to hit his goals when needed. So long story short- I think he will repeat the pattern, maintaining just what he needs to break the record without breaking himself. That said, do to his delayed start on day 1, there is the potential for an all nighter to shave a day. I have a feeling that's an emergency tactic at this point. Steady on Captain seems to be the theme...
Just Bill
08-02-2013, 12:14
LOL, Odd Man, we were just discussing town stop strategy (neros) in the other thread. Nice to see statistics bear out the topic of discussion.
Great minds think alike, lol. I wanted to get a better visual of his daily miles, so I added them to the chart. The only potential downside here is if he breaks 44 miles in a day, I will have to change the scale. :)
I suspect that he has it in him to kick out some higher mileage days before all is said and done, but we shall see.
23094
For the last week or so do you think Matt will have the legs to push steady 40's? I'm thinking he may be able to shave a day off his current pace.
He's been on a steady 60 day pace for some time now, but given the fact that he now has a stiff knee slowing him down (making him have to hike longer hours in the day to achieve the same mileage) and lack-of-energy/weight-loss issues, I think it more likely he finishes on day 61 than on day 59 (but I still like day 60 best). From the end of day 44 to the end of day 50 he went from almost 10 miles ahead of the pace needed to keep up with my guesstimate 60 day itinerary to over 11 miles behind (he's that far short of Erwin on day 50, where I thought a 60 day hiker would be after 50 days), losing 21.5 miles in total.
From the end of day 50 he would need to hike:
32.2 miles a day to finish on day 61;
35.4 miles a day to finish on day 60;
39.3 miles a day to finish on day 59.
The good news is that since he started at mid-day on his first hiking day to beat 60.5 days he "just" needs to finish any time before the end of the day on his 61st hiking day. And since Lone Wolf attests that Matt reached Damascus on July 26, and his video log shows him reaching Damascus on Day 47, he just needs to finish some time before the end of Friday, August 9 to beat the record (one week from today).
As for what he might do from here on out to shave all the time he can, I'm guessing showers and laundry will be the first things to get the boot!
Wow, with only a few hundred miles to go, hopefully he's able to finish in less than 60.5
Odd Man Out
08-02-2013, 16:11
With all this talk of miles per day, I was inspired to make another graph:
23098
With all this talk of miles per day, I was inspired to make another graph:
23098
I beat you to it in post #481, lol.
jersey joe
08-02-2013, 22:27
He's been on a steady 60 day pace for some time now, but given the fact that he now has a stiff knee slowing him down (making him have to hike longer hours in the day to achieve the same mileage) and lack-of-energy/weight-loss issues, I think it more likely he finishes on day 61 than on day 59 (but I still like day 60 best). From the end of day 44 to the end of day 50 he went from almost 10 miles ahead of the pace needed to keep up with my guesstimate 60 day itinerary to over 11 miles behind (he's that far short of Erwin on day 50, where I thought a 60 day hiker would be after 50 days), losing 21.5 miles in total.
From the end of day 50 he would need to hike:
32.2 miles a day to finish on day 61;
35.4 miles a day to finish on day 60;
39.3 miles a day to finish on day 59.
The good news is that since he started at mid-day on his first hiking day to beat 60.5 days he "just" needs to finish any time before the end of the day on his 61st hiking day. And since Lone Wolf attests that Matt reached Damascus on July 26, and his video log shows him reaching Damascus on Day 47, he just needs to finish some time before the end of Friday, August 9 to beat the record (one week from today).
As for what he might do from here on out to shave all the time he can, I'm guessing showers and laundry will be the first things to get the boot!
Excellent Breakdown Map Man, looking forward to following his last week on the trail! I think he's got it in him to get the record.
Thank you jersey joe and Odd Man Out and Just Bill and jeffmeh for going to the trouble of checking in on Matt's web site so frequently and translating what you find there to table and graph form to illustrate Matt's hiking progress for us here at WB. It's made following his hike easier and more fun!
Just Bill
08-03-2013, 09:22
Thank you jersey joe and Odd Man Out and Just Bill and jeffmeh for going to the trouble of checking in on Matt's web site so frequently and translating what you find there to table and graph form to illustrate Matt's hiking progress for us here at WB. It's made following his hike easier and more fun!
Absolutely- right back at you though for all your work and info, perhaps not as fun as this stuff- but infinitely more useful!
Thank you jersey joe and Odd Man Out and Just Bill and jeffmeh for going to the trouble of checking in on Matt's web site so frequently and translating what you find there to table and graph form to illustrate Matt's hiking progress for us here at WB. It's made following his hike easier and more fun!
And thank you. As I think you know, your data provided the impetus for me to start charting this for Achilles last season, to help him to meet his "hard stop" schedule. On another note, it's tough to see another tragedy unfolding in Maine, and I hope it ends well.
Back to Matt.... Not surprisingly, his cumulative average mpd is quite proportional to the southbound averages you compiled. If he keeps that up, he accelerates slightly and breaks the record.
Another observation: Beginning on day 38 he has alternated between a "big day" and a "lighter day," oscillating around the 36.4 mpd linear average. I've changed the scale and removed the "predictive" lines in this view.
23102
fredmugs
08-03-2013, 11:40
Towns Slow You Down.
I was looking at Matt's daily miles. When you highlight his ten slowest days (aren't spreadsheets wonderful) you see that four of these were in NH. The rest (except for day 2) were either the day after a town stop, or (in the case of Damascus) the day of a town stop. In fact every town stop except Dalton was followed by or coincided with a slow day.
It was the towns in NH that slowed him down??? That's some analysis.
max patch
08-03-2013, 12:16
This was posted in another thread about Mt Everest, but if you consider it in the context of the AT, it is relevant (announce record setting attempts before you leave), humorous (bizarre records re getting naked on the summit), and scary (record attempts must meet approved government criteria).
At least thats how it hit me.
Officials and mountaineering experts also said the new regulations would constrain what they described as a growing competition to set bizarre records.
They said climbers would be required to announce beforehand if they planned to set any record.
"We have had many examples in the past when climbers did not share their plan to set a record beforehand and they made the record claims only after they reached the summit," said Ang Tshering Sherpa, the immediate past president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association - a professional body of expedition operators.
"These days we see people trying to make bizarre records like, for instance, standing on their head or taking off their clothes while on the summit.
"These behaviours don't bode well for the dignity of Everest, which is a global icon," said Mr Ang Tshering, who is also a member of the committee that has recommended the new rules.
"And now the integrated team will make sure that expedition teams inform them beforehand if they intend to make a new record.
"The team will then let the climbers know whether the planned record-making effort falls within stipulated criteria set by the government."
Just Bill
08-03-2013, 15:09
Day 51- hogback ridge I believe- 38.7- Day 52- Hot springs and Elmers- a good place to fix your troubles- 40.7 Miles. Go Matt Go!
rocketsocks
08-03-2013, 15:19
He's comin' around the club house turn....nice job all you statisticians! now bring em on home! Go Matty Go Matty
Seems like the reporting delay is getting narrower.
Odd Man Out
08-03-2013, 16:05
It was the towns in NH that slowed him down??? That's some analysis.
No - NH is assumed to be slow due to the mountains. The REST of the slow days (with one exception) were on town days. And every town (with one exception) had a slow day.
Meriadoc
08-03-2013, 16:13
Rooting for Matt!
Odd Man Out
08-03-2013, 16:15
Day 51- hogback ridge I believe- 38.7- Day 52- Hot springs and Elmers- a good place to fix your troubles- 40.7 Miles. Go Matt Go!
That puts him 17.6 miles ahead of the linear pace, which is the most he has been ahead of schedule on the whole hike.
Also his MPD needed to finish on day 60 is down to 34.2, which is the lowest of the hike.
That puts him 17.6 miles ahead of the linear pace, which is the most he has been ahead of schedule on the whole hike.
Also his MPD needed to finish on day 60 is down to 34.2, which is the lowest of the hike.
If the creek don't rise!
rocketsocks
08-03-2013, 16:42
Also his MPD needed to finish on day 60 is down to 34.2, which is the lowest of the hike.Perhaps the calm before the storm...could be hanging back a bit in an attempt to trick the body and then kick it into over drive.:-?...
or maybe he's just a little tired