Jeff had big plans for 2020. In the autumn of 2019, he signed a pro-contract with Salomon and was planning to race hard in a number of ultra-marathons this year. COVID-19 had different plans. With races cancelled, or at best postponed until 2021, Jeff needed to come up with a new plan. Cue, an FKT attempt on the legendary Backbone Trail in California.

“FKT” stands for Fastest Known Time, and the concept of covering a distance faster than anybody else on record has exploded this year. In this episode, Jeff shares his story, how he adapted and pivoted this year to ensure that he would still achieve his goals and what he hopes to achieve in the future.

To learn more about the Backbone Trail FKT and watch the awesome video content created by former Eat Your Greens podcast guest, Ali Rogers, head to Jeff’s Instagram account or visit his website:

https://www.instagram.com/uponward/

https://www.uponward.com/

Show Notes:

01:13 – Jeff on his story and getting into ultra-running

08:15 – Jeff on the Backbone Trail FKT

11:46 – Jeff on the high and low points during his Backbone Trail FKT attempt

16:42 – Jeff on the importance of making the Backbone trail FKT a team event

20:46 – Jeff on signing with Salomon

24:57 – Jeff on the power and potential of simply asking for what you want

25:55 – Jeff on running the OCC in 2021 and his long term plan to run the UTMB

30:00 – Jeff on what he learnt from training for an FKT that he'll apply to race day training

35:22 – Jeff on what success looks like for him

38:09 – Jeff on what running has taught him about himself.