In a monumental achievement that has captured the attention of the global running community, Jasmin Paris has etched her name in history as the first woman to conquer the notoriously grueling Barkley Marathons. Finishing the race in an astounding 59 hours, 58 minutes, and 21 seconds, Paris surpassed the 60-hour cutoff by a mere 99 seconds, showcasing unparalleled endurance and determination.
At 40 years old, this British runner balances her demanding roles as a veterinarian and research scientist while raising two children. Her dedication paid off after years of perseverance; Paris had previously attempted the Barkley Marathons in both 2022 and 2023, becoming the first woman since 2001 to reach the challenging fourth lap before ultimately not finishing. Her breakthrough this year marks a significant milestone in ultrarunning.
The Barkley Marathons, established in 1986 by Gary Cantrell and Karl Henn, is infamous for its extreme difficulty. The race covers approximately 160 kilometers with a staggering 60,000 feet of elevation gain and descent, equivalent to twice the height of Mount Qomolangma, the world's highest peak. Participants navigate treacherous, often unmarked terrain, relying solely on their memory and limited resources, as there are only two aid stations offering water.
Since extending to its current 100-mile distance in 1989, only 20 individuals have accomplished this formidable challenge within the 60-hour limit. Paris joins this elite group of five ultrarunners who completed this year’s race, a testament to her extraordinary resilience and skill.
Reflecting on her journey, Paris shared, \"Barkley Marathons is a truly unique challenge, and the idea of running it has been growing on me for the last few years. I feel a mixture of excitement and nerves. I know it's going to be very hard, possibly impossible, but at the same time, that's what makes me want to run it.\"
The race's unusual origins are rooted in the 1977 escape of James Earl Ray, the assassin of Martin Luther King Jr., who managed to cover approximately 12 miles over 54 arduous hours after escaping from a nearby prison. Each year, the course undergoes modifications, typically consisting of five loops around 20 miles each, and is highly exclusive with only 35 entrants allowed annually. Aspiring runners must submit a modest entrance fee of $1.60 along with a persuasive essay explaining why they should be permitted to run.
Mark Williams was the first to complete the race within the time limit in 1995, while Brett Maune holds the record for the fastest finish at 52 hours, 3 minutes, and 8 seconds, achieved in 2012. Jasmin Paris's historic finish not only highlights her personal triumph but also inspires future generations of women in the demanding world of ultrarunning.
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Jasmin Paris first woman to conquer hellacious Barkley Marathons
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