Fastest Known Podcast

Today we’re traveling to possibly the most remote mountain range in the 48 contiguous US states, Wyoming’s Wind River Range. These rugged mountains have more bighorns than people and yet our guest Kelly Halpin finds great joy in traversing them solo and unsupported.

What does the infinity symbol have to do with FKTs? 

Well, if you’re in the state of Washington it’s indicative of one of the most challenging mountain routes in the state–Mount Rainier’s Infinity Loop.

Near the Norwegian border, mostly above the Arctic Circle, lies Sweden’s mountainous Kungsleden Trail. Tune in to today’s episode where host Heather Anderson chats with prolific FKT setter Liz Derstine about her recent self-supported effort on this iconic trail. She shares the logistical challenges of completing a 480 km trail in just over 6 days while contending with 7 lake crossings–including two that required rowing herself. She also recounts her experiences with autumn weather, wild reindeer, and pushing herself into new personal terrain.

This week we travel to the islands of New Zealand to catch up with the world’s fastest dentist, Karel Sabbe. In early 2025 he smashed the supported record on the iconic Te Araroa Trail by taking over 17 days off of the previous time on the 3,000 kilometer route. Tune in as Karel and host Heather Anderson talk about beach running, wild dogs, fording rivers and more on this incredible adventure.

Today’s episode takes us to the highest mountain in Japan via a lesser used route. Join host Heather Anderson as she chats with self-professed amateur ultrarunner Simon Pfreundschuh about his self-supported FKT on Mount Fuji. He talks about how this 12,000 vertical ascent (and descent) became his first FKT as well as the ways the Paul Deckret route surprised him. He also offers his tips for planning an FKT while traveling and shares the things he would have done differently.

Tune into today’s episode to hear Bob Stewart chat with host Heather Anderson about his experiences on Pennsylvania’s numerous state trails where he has set many FKTs. They dive into the particulars of his unsupported FKT on the notoriously difficult and remote Tuscarora Trail as well as why Bob enjoys the modality of unsupported more than other categories. Dive in and hear all about rocks, reroutes, and testing out homemade gear on a long FKT attempt. Bob also shares his tips for balancing work, family life, and FKTs.

Recently, Fastest Known Time has approved new guidelines for para-athletes. Athletes who have any “Eligible Impairment” listed by the International Paralympic Committee may submit an FKT by checking the “Para athlete” checkbox on the FKT submission form.