Ultrarunner Sophie Woods sets new record for Via Alpina, crossing 8 European countries in 29 days
CNN • • sports
Key Points:
- New Zealand ultrarunner Sophie Woods completed a 1,240-mile run across eight European countries in 29 days, breaking both the men’s and women’s records for the Via Alpina endurance challenge.
- Woods surpassed the previous men's record by six days and the fastest female record by nine days, finishing the route from Trieste, Italy, to Monaco.
- The journey involved diverse and difficult terrain, including steep ascents and exposed ridges, with temperatures exceeding 100°F due to a severe European heatwave.
- To maintain her pace, Woods reduced her sleep to less than two and a half hours per night and faced challenges such as swollen muscles and running near wildfires.
- Emotional support and supplies were provided by her husband and dog, and despite extreme fatigue, Woods described the achievement as “delightful” once completed.
