OK - up front I’m not a purist but I have humped a ruck over a few mountains and down some trails. Even hiked a bit of the AT.
He ran the trail carrying water bottles and had a support crew that carried his “camp” items.
The AT is the journey - not a throughway to the end,
Completely agree.
This was entirely about his setting an endurance record.
Very impressive considering his age.
RE: “OK - up front I’m not a purist but I have humped a ruck over a few mountains and down some trails. Even hiked a bit of the AT.
He ran the trail carrying water bottles and had a support crew that carried his “camp” items.
The AT is the journey - not a throughway to the end”
Obviously, he was not thee to 'hike' but to speed to the max. Different set of priorities and not what most who do 'hike' would do nor would they have that support crew. Still, like the bicyclists who ride the RAAM (Ride Across America), what they do is to be extreme, to set records. They don't bother bicyclists who aren't there for the effort and probably, these runners just pass the hikers (I hope) on their way.
Still, to do that length and that terrain, 464+k feet in change, on dirt trails is still impressive in that time frame. That our society has enough ability to allow such efforts, assures me that we still have hope for the future!
I read you, but…If someone is keeping score, expect some people to play to get the best score.