This year, history has been made at the Barkley Marathons after another rendition of a truly insane race. For the first time in Barkley’s history, there were five winners, two of them already reigning champions.
Ukranian athlete Ihor Verys was the first to reach the yellow gate at 58:44:59, followed by John Kelly at 59:15:38. This was Kelly’s third win at the Barkley Marathons (2017, 2023).
Jared Campbell has hit the record books with a fourth route completion (2012, 2014, 2016). He touched the yellow gate at 59:30:32.
Greig Hamilton completed the race in 59:38:42, becoming the 19th person to be added to the Barkley Marathon’s history books.
Jasmin Paris has become the first woman in history to beat the Barkley Marathons and become the 20th person to complete the race with just two minutes to spare (59:58:21).
In its 38 years, the Barkley Marathons have seen thousands begin its route, and only 20 athletes have finished the race. However, we now have a female winner, which many sceptics thought impossible.
Over the years, many incredible female athletes have taken on the race, including Nicky Spinks, Courtney Dauwalter, Amelia Boone, Liz Canty, Stephanie Case, Maggie Guteral, Nicki Rehn and Kaz Williams.
Damian Hall ran in from the wrong side, having tapped out on his final lap. Sebastien Raichon also tapped out on the fifth loop.
The route follows five 20-mile loops through the state park, ascending more than 54,000 feet. Each loop begins and ends at the yellow gate, where support teams make camp. Those who complete three of the five loops are awarded ‘fun run’ finisher status. Until today, there has never been a female finisher; Jasmin has already made history by becoming the first woman to start the fifth loop.