British ultrarunner Jasmin Paris makes history by completing the notoriously difficult Barkley Marathons, enduring 100 miles of treacherous terrain and 60,000 feet of ascent within a 60-hour time limit.
British ultrarunner Jasmin Paris has etched her name in the history books by becoming the first woman to complete the notorious Barkley Marathons in Tennessee. This extraordinary feat was accomplished in a nail-biting finish, where Paris crossed the line with a mere 99 seconds left of the grueling 60-hour time limit. The Barkley Marathons, known for its extreme difficulty, includes around 100 miles of treacherous terrain and demands competitors to tackle a staggering 60,000 feet of ascent, equivalent to scaling Mount Everest twice.
Originating in 1989 and conceived by Gary “Lazarus Lake” Cantrell, the race challenges participants to five 20-mile loops that encompass sharp bushes, dense forests, and a total elevation change of approximately 16,500 meters. Its nickname, “the race that eats its young,” underlines the daunting nature of an event where only about 20 competitors have managed to finish within the allotted time over its 38-year history.
The 40-year-old Paris, hailing from Midlothian, Scotland, not only faced the physical challenges of the race but also adhered to its unique traditions. Runners are required to locate specific books along the course as proof of their journey and submit an essay on why they wish to participate, along with a small entry fee. Paris, a veterinarian and research scientist by profession and a recognized figure in ultra-running, has previously demonstrated her exceptional endurance by setting a course record in a 268-mile race, during which she was expressing milk for her baby.
Her completion of the Barkley Marathons adds to her impressive list of athletic achievements and marks a significant milestone in the ultra-running community, celebrated by her sponsor, Inov8, as one of the sport’s greatest stories.
