Ultra-runner Sophie Grant is closing in on a world record for completing the Via Alpina, a challenging 2,000-kilometer (approximately 1,250 miles) route through the Alps. The 42-year-old New Zealander, who began her trek on July 4 in Trieste, Italy, is aiming to finish the course in 30 days, which would set a new fastest known time (FKT) for the route.
Grant's ambitious journey traverses seven countries: Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and France, culminating on the Mediterranean coast in Monaco. The route involves an ascent of approximately 120,000 meters (393,700 feet).
The current overall record for the Via Alpina was set by Jack Catterall in August 2024 at 35 days, 21 hours. The fastest women's time was previously held by Tessa Caspers at 38 days and 2 hours, set a year later. Grant is on track to surpass both these benchmarks.
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A typical day for Grant involves 14 to 18 hours of running, covering 40 to 50 miles and often including up to 16,000 feet of climbing. She described her approach as focusing on moving as fast as the terrain allows, rather than dwelling on the immense scale of the task.
Her daily routine includes three to five hours of sleep, followed by a protein-rich breakfast. Throughout the day, Grant consumes energy gels, nuts, seeds, dried meat, and sandwiches, supplemented by larger meals like burritos and pasta when she meets with her support team. She aims for 6,000 to 7,000 calories daily, though she noted this often falls short of her energy expenditure.
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Grant's progress is supported by her photographer, Zoe Salt, and her partner, George Woods, who aim to meet her at rest stops. Despite facing an unexpected heatwave in Europe, which has created unusually hot conditions, Grant has maintained her pace. She employs protective clothing and sunscreen to manage the heat.
She has emphasized the importance of discipline and breaking down the journey into manageable daily goals. Grant anticipates taking time to rest and recover after completing her trek, planning to