On Saturday, Sept. 21, 31-year-old Tara Dower made history on the Appalachian Trail. She conquered the 2,190-mile trek in 40 days, 18 hours, and five minutes- breaking the record for the fastest known time ever to complete this hike.
During her trek – which included an elevation gain of over 464,000 feet – Tara raised money for Girls on the Run. Why GOTR? On her website, Tara shared, “My hope is to inspire women and girls to go for that tough goal no matter if it’s with running or in life.” This superstar initially sought out to raise $20,000 for our organization and wound up surpassing her fundraising goal, achieving over $50,000 and counting! Thank you, Tara, for inspiring girls everywhere and helping us continue to support our mountain-moving participants from coast to coast.
Want to learn more about Tara Dower’s incredible feat? Check out these awesome articles featuring Girls on the Run to read all about how her feat and feet broke records:
- Good Morning America – Woman shatters Appalachian Trail speed record
- Outside Magazine – This Hiker Just Smashed the Speed Record on the Appalachian Trail
- Runner’s World – 2,189 Miles, 40 Days, and 3 Showers: How Tara Dower Destroyed the Appalachian Trail Speed Record
- Gear Junkie – Tara Dower Sets New Overall Supported Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail
- The Washington Post – Hiking the Appalachian Trail often takes 6 months. She did it in 40 days.
- Sports Illustrated
And if you are feeling moved by her story, click here to learn more about how to become a Girls on the Run supporter or donate now!
