The Barkley Marathons, known for their extremely challenging terrain, took place in 2024, with participants facing physical and mental tests. This year’s race marked a significant milestone as British runner Jasmin Paris became the first woman in the event’s 38-year history to complete the grueling course. 

Men have historically dominated ultra-running, particularly in extreme events like the Barkley Marathons. But this year Jasmin Paris’ historic achievement in completing the race serves as an inspiration for greater diversity in the world of endurance sports. What actually sets the marathon apart?

Challenges faced by Jasmin Paris in extreme endurance 

As per the reports on RUN 247, the fact that only 17 men have previously completed the marathon, and in the four decades, the 18th person is a woman – ‘Jasmin Paris’. The Tennessee event is referred to as ‘The Race That Eats Its Young’. It is notorious for its rugged terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and demanding challenges. These factors make it incredibly tough for any participant, regardless of gender, to complete the race. Therefore, it is reason enough to be highlighted.

Celebrated photographer, David Miller also posted Jasmin’s success on his X account captioning, “Jasmin Paris. Finisher number 20 at the Barkley Marathons. She’s broken the cycle. #bm100 #barkleymarathons #barkley #legend”.

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The cycle here refers to the list of only men who could complete the marathon. 40-year-old Jasmin Paris had 60 hours to complete the extreme 100 miles, which she completed in less than two minutes to spare. Her timing stood at 59 hours, 58 minutes, and 21 seconds.

Jasmin completed this ‘Fun Run’ (three loops of the race) on her debut in 2022. Then last year she became the first female since 2001 to embark on a fourth loop. Jasmin was left with barely 13 hours to complete the final loop, the fifth one. This achievement has placed the 40-year-old in the Barkley Legends, and her name will go down for generations to come. Interestingly, Paris has shown her phenomenal grit previously as well.

Winning the ‘brutal’ alongside motherly duties

Alongside being a runner, Jasmin Paris is a mum of two, a vet, as well as a research scientist who holds a PhD studying acute myeloid leukemia. It was the year 2019 that brought her to the limelight. Just over a year after giving birth to her first child, she took part in the 268-mile Spine Race and snatched the win. Notably, the winter ultra-running event down the mountainous backbone of England is often referred to as ‘Britain’s Most Brutal’. But that is not the highlight.

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On her way to the win, Paris also broke the previous record in the race, finishing it in 83hrs 12mins. It was more than 12 hours less than the past occasions. Following her motherly duties, she also expressed milk at checkpoints along the way. With one more resilient win, we can only say, more power to the Marathon Mom!