The Scottish runner becomes the first woman to finish the gruelling 100-mile race, setting a powerful example for aspiring female athletes
Jasmin Paris, a 40-year-old runner from Midlothian, Scotland, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, USA. The Barkley Marathons, renowned as one of the world’s most challenging races, has seen Paris join the elite group of only 20 individuals who have finished the race since its extension to 100 miles in 1989. Paris crossed the finish line with just 99 seconds to spare before the 60-hour cut-off, an achievement that speaks volumes about her endurance, determination, and skill.
The annual race, held at Frozen Head State Park, demands participants to navigate through five loops of approximately 20 miles each, encompassing a total ascent and descent of 60,000 feet – equivalent to climbing Mount Everest twice from sea level. The course’s demanding nature, coupled with its minimal pathways and the obstacles posed by the natural terrain, such as brambles, makes completing the Barkley Marathons a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned ultramarathon runners.
Reflecting on her triumphant finish, Paris shared the physical and mental toll the race exacted on her, highlighting the relentless scratches from brambles and the sprint required to beat the clock as she neared the end of the grueling 60-hour journey. Despite the hardships, Paris described her accomplishment as “mind-opening,” emphasizing the lasting confidence and inspiration such challenges provide.
Paris’s motivation extended beyond personal achievement. She embarked on this journey to inspire women worldwide, aiming to empower female athletes and women looking to overcome their challenges. Her success serves as a testament to the potential within every woman to surmount obstacles and achieve greatness, reinforcing the importance of self-belief and perseverance.
The Barkley Marathons, conceived by Gary “Lazarus Lake” Cantrell and Karl Henn, was inspired by the infamous escape of James Earl Ray from the nearby Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, underscoring the race’s storied and challenging nature. Paris’s victory not only secures her a place in the race’s history but also shines a light on the capabilities and resilience of women in sports, encouraging young girls and women across the globe to pursue their passions and tackle challenges head-on.
With the Barkley Marathons behind her, Paris already looks forward to her next endeavours, including the Scottish Islands Peaks Race and the Tor des Géants in Italy. Her achievements underscore the growing recognition and celebration of women’s accomplishments in endurance sports, marking a significant step forward in the quest for gender equality in athletics.
