Scott Jurek, a world-renowned ultramarathon runner, is attempting to break his own record for the second time in a grueling challenge.
The tricky Appalachian Trail stretches along a staggering 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine in the US.
And, six years after setting the world record, Jurek plans to beat it again.
Vegan ultramarathon runner
Since going vegan in 1997, Jurek has smashed a host of victories such as the Spartathlon, Hardrock 100, and 135 mile Badwater Ultramarathon.
His reasons for changing his diet are both to improve endurance, recovery, and to help the environment.
Currently, he’s taking on the Appalachian Trail for the second time. Moreover, the course consists of 157,000 meters and will see Jurek take on at least two miles of height every day.
On his first go in 2015, Jurek set the fastest known time (FKT) of 46 days, eight hours, and eight minutes. As it has since been broken, Jurek hopes he can claim the title once again.
Record-breaking challenge
Jurek told Great Vegan Athletes about his preparations. He said: “I’m going to be consuming tons of coconut oil and olive oil, olives, avocados. And, just going for fat sources because it has nine calories for every gram.
“Also, I’ll rely on this plant-based egg from JUST, for some comfort food egg sandwiches.
“I’ll also have vegan ice cream and green smoothies with spinach and kale and things, so I can still get some veggies. I think last time, I ate two salads the whole time.”
The athlete is expected to complete the challenge this September.
You can find out more about Scott Jurek and his epic challenges here