Massive congratulations going out to trail runner/ultra marathoner Tara Dower who just completed all 2197.4 miles of the Appalachian Trail in a scorching fast 40 days 18 hours 5 minutes. Pending verification, Tara will hold the record for fastest known time (FKT) to finish the Appalachian Trail which runs from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine traversing 14 states.
“40 days 18 hours 5 minutes. Finishing the Appalachian Trail in the fastest known time (pending verification by FKT) is a dream come true. If I’m to be honest I didn’t think it was possible. However, I had people on my crew who believed in my abilities and pushed me to my limits. Thats all it was. Everyday waking up, getting on trail, doing my best and trusting Chumpchangefkt. Incredibly thankful for ALL the crew, pacers, and friends who came out to help. It would have not been possible without y’all. My brain is still foggy and I’m still processing everything. There will be more in the coming days but for now thank you for all the support!” –Tara Dower
Average hikers who attempt the entirety of the AT average 8 to 15 miles per day. Tara averaged around 55. Hard to imagine the physical endurance and mental fortitude required to cover 55 miles of uneven terrain for 40 days straight but somehow Tara did it.
HERE IS TARA COMPLETING HER FKT:
Tara used her FKT attempt to raise $20,000 for Girls On The Run, a physical activity-based positive youth development program designed to enhance girls’ social, emotional and physical skills and behaviors to successfully navigate life experiences. She exceeded her funding goal and it looks like she got the record as well. Our deepest admirations and congratulations go out to Tara for her monumental achievement. Cheers!
