Ultrarunner Lizzy Fowler's FKT Attempt on JMT Cut Short by Wildfires and Injuries
Ultrarunner Lizzy Fowler attempted to set a new Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the John Muir Trail (JMT) to raise funds and awareness for Take Back The Night, a nonprofit supporting sexual assault survivors. However, her journey was cut short due to unforeseen challenges.
Fowler started her northbound, supported FKT attempt, aiming to beat Darcy Piceu's 2017 record of 3 days, 7 hours, and 57 minutes. Within the first 40 miles, she faced stomach trouble and severe nausea, forcing her to adjust her nutrition plan on the fly. Despite these early setbacks, Fowler pushed on.
As she continued, the thick smoke from nearby wildfires, including the Garnet Fire, made it difficult for her to breathe. The Air Quality Index (AQI) reached dangerously high levels, between 400 to 500. Fowler's knee also began to swell up, eventually reaching the size of a grapefruit. At mile 150, with her health at risk, Fowler was forced to abandon her FKT attempt due to the smoke. She was carried the last 2 miles out of the JMT due to her knee injury.
Fowler's FKT attempt may have been cut short, but her determination and resilience in the face of adversity have brought attention to her cause. Despite the challenges, Fowler's FKT attempt raised awareness for Take Back The Night and sexual assault survivors. Her courage in sharing her own experience of sexual assault on a run less than a year prior has inspired many. Though her FKT attempt on the JMT didn't go as planned, Fowler's spirit remains unbroken, and she continues to be a beacon of hope and strength for survivors.
