In this powerful episode of Airey Bros Radio, we sit down with Tara Dower, the extraordinary endurance athlete who recently set the fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail. Covering 2,190 miles in just 40 days, Tara shares her story of pushing through mental and physical barriers, balancing mental preparation, and how her tight-knit crew helped her overcome each day's challenges. From brutal trail days to creative trail fueling and unforgettable camaraderie, Tara gives a rare glimpse into the mindset of an FKT athlete.Alongside tales from her Appalachian adventure, Tara discusses her other FKTs on iconic trails like the Colorado Trail and Mountains-to-Sea Trail and victories in ultramarathons like the Hardrock 100, Run Rabbit Run, and Hellbender 100. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, community, and unmatched trail dedication. 

Highlights Include:

• Tara’s grueling 40-day journey on the AT and her crew’s crucial role
• Tips for overcoming mental barriers in ultra-endurance events
• Insights into Tara’s trail fueling strategy and training for an FKT
• Advice for aspiring thru-hikers and anyone aiming for big goals

Don’t miss this captivating episode filled with trail wisdom, motivation, and adventure!

Show Notes:

1. Intro and Background: Tara’s start in endurance sports and transition into ultra-running.
2. Appalachian Trail FKT: How Tara prepared, the support she received, and the highs and lows on the trail.
3. Trail Tips: Tara’s advice on mindset, overcoming mental obstacles, and the best way to approach long-distance hikes.
4. Other FKTs and Wins: Tara’s record-setting experiences on the Colorado Trail, Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and her ultramarathon accomplishments.
5. Future Goals: What’s next for Tara in the world of ultrarunning and FKTs.

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