Running the AT

[tonyh2012]

Hi

I am trying to find out how many people have actually ran the Appalachian Trail and if anyone has ran the full 3500km from the UK?

I am a Ultra runner and I am looking to run the AT within the next couple of years.

I would also welcome any advice or help for planning such an expedition which I would be looking to complete in less than 60 days.

Many thanks

[leaftye]

Here's a start.

http://fastestknowntime.proboards.co...hread=6&page=1

[Lone Wolf]

David Horton. 1991. 52 days

[Maddog]

Jennifer Pharr Davis is an American long distance hiker. She currently holds the unofficial record for the fastest thru hike of the Appalachian Trail with a time of 46 days, 11 hours, and 20 minutes, set on July 31, 2011. Maddog

[Spirit Walker]

Jennifer Pharr Davis wrote a book called, "Becoming Odyssa" that you might find helpful. David Horton's run was supported, which might be difficult for you since you're coming from Britain, but if you contact him, I think he'd be willing to talk to you about it as he's a good man.

I would imagine Squeaky has the British record - though he hiked the trail as part of his Triple Crown hike rather than running it, but it was definitely a speed hike.

[Mags]

JPD also hiked it vs running. A steady 3+ MPH over a long day. The theory is that hiking the AT results in longer days but is more forgiving on the body. Scott Williamson holds the overall speed record on the PCT and used hiking vs running as well.

Think there is a tipping point where hiking is more efficient in the long term vs running (darn if I know what that tipping point may be, though. )

[leaftye]

I don't know much about Jennifer, but I found one page that said she ran downhill. Scott jogged a little on his last attempt too, but that was to make up for lost time spent helping rescue an injured trail angel. I agree with the idea that hiking may be the fastest and most efficient way to travel long trails, but it takes an extraordinary amount of experience, discipline and planning.

[tolowo80]

I've only ran sections in MD for training amd once for an Ultra. The JFK50 starts in Boonsboro so from there up into the mountain then down and out to the C&O canal. About 20+ miles of the AT... the rocky sections are a pain. Even the elite runners tip toe these parts.

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