First-ever FKT attempt. This is part 1 of 3 of my 2-week FKT attempts around the Portland, Oregon area. I don't have any trail races until July of 2024 so I'm just trying to spice things up in the middle of a big training block.
A little too conservative on the ascent knowing I wanted to go hard back down. I’ll be back for the up only. Got pushed from behind from my running mate Andrew Rylaarsdam who hung with me to the top! Brought a 250m flask and one gel. Was too preoccupied flying downhill to even think of opening the gel... and only took a few sips out of the flask. There was a ton of people on trail and counted about 26 "on your lefts," but I will say it was nice to have the camaraderie and occasional encouragement! The wildflowers go crazy, recommend this hike/ trail run to anyone and everyone.