FKT: James Ferguson - Mauna Kea (HI) - 2019-06-12

Athletes
Route variation
ascent from Hilo
Gender category
Male
Style
Supported
Finish date
Total time
13h 21m 11s
Report

Flagged due to lack of reaching the true summit, thereby cutting off about 400m of distance and a few m of elevation gain.

"Hilo to Mauna Kea Summit:
On June 12, 2019 I attempted the supported FKT. I chose supported mainly due to recent surgery and a history of altitude sickness, both of which left me potentially requiring additional support. Also, the visitor center was currently closed for construction and there were minimal facilities available.
I began at 04:00 on the bridge from Coconut Island, similar in location to the other previous attempts. 
I made it to Saddle Road at 06:15 and realized I could see observatories at the top.
I proceeded down Saddle Road and reached the Access Road at 10:54.
I continued up to visitors center and reached it at 12:53. It was this time I was beginning to show signs of altitude sickness with a moderate headache and nausea. After waiting for 50 minutes, I was able to continue. 
I ascended Mauna Kea at 13 hours, 21 minutes and 11 seconds. The GPS track does not completely follow previous attempts. After I encountered the sign requesting I not ascend to the summit due to respect of the cultural significance of the summit I instead ascended to the highest point next to the observatory. 
Although not the fastest time on the board, I am the only one yet to attempt this supported. I recognize this could and should easily be broken. I hope this attempt will spark continued interest in future attempts for this amazing adventure."