Trail Runner Shelby Farrell's Epic FKTs: Adventures, Costumes, and Van Life with Cats

In this episode of "Free Outside," I, Jeff Garmire, sit down with Shelby Farrell, an incredible trail runner and FKT (Fastest Known Time) record holder. We dive into Shelby's impressive list of FKTs, including the Joshua Tree Traverse, the Backbone Trail, and an incredible attempt at the Long Trail Record. Shelby opens up about her journey into trail and ultra running, living the van life with her cats, and her meticulous approach to training and planning for FKT attempts.

Shelby shares her experiences on the Long Trail FKT attempt, detailing the hurdles she faced, the unwavering support from her crew, and the unexpected moments that made the journey memorable. From enjoying different hot drinks at shelters to dealing with a panic attack and vomiting episode, she recounts the highs and lows of her Long Trail adventure.

Additionally, we discuss the unique challenges that come with FKT attempts, such as unpredictable weather and battling sleep deprivation. I also talk about the filming of Shelby's journey and the exciting upcoming documentary on the Long Trail. Shelby and I share our thoughts on the fun aspect of costumes in trail running and the crucial role of community support in our sport. Tune in for an inspiring and candid conversation filled with insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of FKTs and ultra running.

Takeaways

Shelby Farrell is an accomplished trail runner and FKT record holder, known for her FKTs on the Joshua Tree Traverse, the Backbone Trail, and the Long Trail.

Shelby got into trail running after running her first marathon and discovering her competitive drive. She gradually progressed to longer distances and eventually FKT attempts.

Living in a van with cats allows Shelby the freedom to pursue her passion for trail running and explore different trails and FKT challenges.

Planning and preparation are crucial for successful FKT attempts. Shelby utilizes spreadsheets, maps, and communication tools to coordinate with her support crew and stay on track.

Weather and sleep deprivation can pose significant challenges during FKT attempts. Shelby has learned the importance of being adaptable and making smart decisions to ensure safety and success. The Long Trail is a challenging trail that requires mental and physical strength to complete.

Having a supportive crew and pacers can make a big difference in a long-distance trail run.

Unexpected moments and challenges can arise during a trail run, and it's important to adapt and overcome them.

Filming a trail run adds an extra layer of complexity, but it can capture the community and camaraderie of the sport.

Costumes and personal touches can add fun and excitement to trail running events.

Building and supporting trail running communities is important for the preservation and maintenance of trails.

Sound Bites

"I have some exciting news to announce, but I'm not going to announce it yet."

"Shelby has the Joshua Tree Traverse FKT Out and Back Backbone Trail One Way, which, crazy trail, and the Backbone Trail One Way."

"I think after I ran my first marathon, getting the idea that, oh, I could run a Boston qualifying time was really intriguing."

"This was a great experience. So we'll get to do this again and other cool things again."

"I just got so nauseous. Like knew I was going to throw up, but I'm, I just ran 250 miles and I'm like, bundled up in this blanket."

"I think it's going to show a lot of the kind of community side of doing something supported."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Exciting News

00:56 Shelby's Impressive FKTs

05:13 Living in a Van with Cats

11:54 The Long Trail FKT Challenge

19:36 Balancing Support and Independence

27:40 Challenges and Adversity on the Long Trail

32:03 Challenges and Support on the Long Trail

34:30 The Unexpected Moments and Challenges

42:19 Filming the Journey and the Upcoming Documentary

50:59 The Fun of Costumes in Trail Running

53:23 Building and Supporting Trail Running Communities

Keywords

trail running, FKT, ultramarathons, van life, training, planning, weather, sleep deprivation, Long Trail, challenges, support, hot drinks, panic attack, vomiting, crew, filming, documentary, costumes, community