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Video: Jim Walmsley’s crazy, breathtaking Grand Canyon record run

Some are calling this one of the great running performances of all-time. One thing is for sure after watching this video, the R2R2R is one crazy run.

On Oct. 4, American Jim Walmsley smashed the “fastest known time” (FKT) for both the Rim-to-Rim run of the Grand Canyon, and then the whole shebang, what ultra enthusiasts and veteran hikers call the R2R2R. The previous record holder is Canadian Rob Krar, who lives next door to Walmsley in Flagstaff, Ariz.

Walmsley ran the 67K complete tour of the Canyon in 5:55:20, becoming the first person to break the six-hour mark. Watching the footage provides a glimpse into the difficulty of running on such severe terrain. The R2R2R sees over 6,000m of elevation change, including a continuous 13.5 per cent climb over the final 11K.

For those who of you who can’t get enough, there’s even an unedited 25-minute version:

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