Getting to the start of this FKT involved timing, a little luck and support from my amazing partner Jamieson. Jamieson started an ~ 300km FKT himself on Wednesday, April 5th. One of his motivators for completing his effort was to end with enough time for me to come get him, drive him back to his car, head to the hotel, and drive me to the start of this FKT attempt. (Which ended up being 7hrs of driving for me on Saturday). It all worked out and we are both happy to do this stuff for each other. These adventures are important to both of us ❤️.
A 4am wake up, and a 6:20am start, no headlight needed to start the FKT. Bonus! I honestly had no idea how long this effort would take me. I packed enough food for 24hours of running.
I enjoyed the solo time on the trail. I probably passed about 200 people on a popular part of the section. The Easter weekend weather was next level! It was a beautiful sunny day!!! I had to wear my puffy for the morning and evening though. All good, absolutely no complaints.
All in all, I had a great day. My feet were sore, but nothing extreme so that's incredible for me. This time last year, I called for a ride in the evening of a 2 day effort (after ~55km), so completing this 114km is something to celebrate! I'm over the moon with my progress and I've come so far. It may of taken 2 years to get here (post bilateral feet surgery), but I'm now ready to get back to business!!!
Note: there was a 3km trail closure at Kelso at the end. The sign indicated a 1km road reroute (which I did). The app also has it marked as a black (closed) trail. It's important to follow the trail rules when completing FKTs. I would never want to sacrifice trail sections to permanent closures.
I finished shortly after 2:00AM. Called for my ride (thank you Jamieson) and went back to the hotel for an amazing shower and some shut eye!!
Project 9: I've always wanted to do the Bruce Trail again, since my supported effort in 2017. Unfortunately, at this time, circumstances will not allow this to occur. This is the absolute best next thing. My goal is to earn unsupported FKTs on all 9 Bruce Trail sections in 2023. Distances range from 50km-106 miles. It won't be easy, but I'm super motivated to give it my all!!
section 1: Niagara ✅
section 2: Iroquoia ✅