Originally Posted by
Karl Meltzer
I spoke with Kristian the day after he stopped at a hotel near Route 103 in Vt. I encourage him to get back at it because of the very reason you mention. He is over 100 miles ahead of all the others who have run the AT fast. Myself, Jurek, Stringbean,JPD, Thompson. He had a mental breakdown. Something I've had multiple times on my attempts. I explained to him that he's so far ahead of us, he needs to keep going. The second fastest time on this journey at this point is incredible. He's still got potential to get under 43 days. Without that one fast guy, (Sabbe), he'd be the best. He's not done yet, but he's moving well again, and I'll continue to be in contact encouraging him to forge on. To be able to accomplish this journey on the AT at a very ridiculous fast pace is a priceless adventure. Nothing better than having a crew to help for 45+ days, hiking on the AT, without a heavy pack. It may not be the choice for most folks out there, but it's incredible to have the support and help along the way like this.