In 2019, Tara Dower fell in love with the world of hiking. Since then, she’s become an ultrarunner and long-distance hiker, setting a couple of “fastest known time records” (FKTs) and competing in countless ultramarathons, trail races, and more. Tara even has a whole YouTube channel dedicated to her journey and her passion for educating others on how to get outdoors more often. Still, her latest accomplishment tops them all.
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The thru-hike of the Appalachian trail is no joke. At 2,197 miles long, it’s taken countless hikers well over 42 days to complete. The latest record was set by a dentist from Belgium, Karel Sabbe. In 2018, he completed the massive trail in 41 days, 7 hours, and 39 minutes. But thanks to a lot of hard work, and the help of a supportive team, Tara was able to set a new record for the Appalachian trail!
There are many coveted records in the world of hiking. But the one Tara just beat is one of the most coveted worldwide. To make this happen, Tara completed her hike in a supported style, something most of the records breakers for this trail have done. This means getting a variety of support in things like food, gear, medical expertise, moral support, pacing, and shelter.
Tara Dower Triumphantly Breaks the 2018 Record for This Infamous Appalachian Trail
Still, even with the help, Tara was up for an incredible challenge. To beat the previous record, she slept an average of five hours a night. In the end, though, she succeeded in her mission, shaving off 13 hours from the previous record. That makes the new record 40 days, 18 hours, and 5 minutes. Watch the video below to witness the moment Tara triumphantly makes it to the end of the trail!
@outsidemagazine One of the most grueling records in American endurance sports fell late Saturday night in northern Georgia. Tara Dower a 31-year-old ultrarunner and long-distance hiker born in North Carolina and based in Virginia, reached Georgia’s Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, at 11:53 P.M. She completed the arduous southern thru-hike of the iconic trail, crossing 14 states and 2,197 miles, in 40 days, 18 hours, and 5 minutes. It’s the fastest known time for hiking the iconic trail in either direction. Tap the link in our bio to read more about her accomplishment. Thanks to @Hunter Leininger for letting us share this video. #runtok #ultra #ultrarunner #runner #getoutside #taradower ♬ Come Inside Of My Heart – IV Of Spades
“Finishing the Appalachian Trail in the fastest known time is a dream come true,” Tara shares on social media. “… 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!!”
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here!
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