I started the climb around 1:30 am hoping to make it to the top by sunrise and the. Run down. I had heard there is a ranger stationed at position 2 who checks permits. I decided to run mostly by moonlight so as not to attract attention to my self with a headlamp. From the start until position 2 I was able to keep the trail easily and run most of the time. After position 2 it gets steep and I slowed down to a brisk walk. I passed one small group with a guide but passed them quickly without incident. From position 3 to the rim camp was my least favorite part of the climb. It is very steep with loose dirt rocks and roots that make very slow going up and very difficult to run down as well.
The altitude started to hit me at this point so I had to slow down. After reaching the rim camp there is a short flat section which was a nice break. Then the really hard part started. The climb to the summit from the rim is very steep and very loose gravel and sand it was slow going but I made it to top in about 5 hrs. Spent about 5 minutes at the top taking in the beautiful views and taking some pictures. The top was very crowded and with lots of people climbing up from the camp to get sunrise at the top.
the run down from the top to the rim camp was very fast and easy with the loose gravel providing nice cushioning for the down hill running. I ran through the rim camp and even got some high fives from people there. I then had to slow down for the steep section until position 2. And from there I ran the rest of the way. taking about 2.5hrs to get back down.
It was a really amazing mountain and I enjoyed my experience.
Editor's note: I clarified with David that he had a permit for the mountain. He noted that he had only a 1-day permit instead of the more common 2-day permit, which is why he wanted to keep a low profile and avoid explaining himself to a ranger during his FKT attempt. -NB