Post by trinity on Sept 2, 2019 12:46:51 GMT -8
As many of you know, Thirst is a memoir of Heather Anderson's successful 2015 FKT attempt of the Pacific Crest Trail. I read this book with fairly low expectations. I don't, honestly, understand why anyone would want to set an FKT, and if I had the opportunity to hike the PCT, I would want to savor it at a much slower rate. However, in the spirit of HYOH, I thought I would give this book a read. To my surprise, I really enjoyed it. Though I can't imagine wanting to attempt an FKT, I am a runner and I enjoy some challenging races, so I do understand the joy of pushing oneself, of testing one's physical limitations, and finding the place where physical and psychological endurance meet. Heck, I'm reaching the point where every backpacking trip is something of a physical test. I can also understand the joy of speed, to a degree. I love hiking, but I also love trail running, which is a very different way of experiencing the joy of being outside. Anish's accomplishment is in its own class, but at least I can relate to the thrill of pushing oneself, to learn what one is capable of.
In this regard, her accomplishment is absolutely unbelievable. Liz "Snorkel" Thomas has called Anish "possibly the greatest athlete in the world", and I would certainly not argue. She covered the entire PCT, self-supported, in 60 days, averaging over 40 miles a day. I found her day by day account very interesting. Her observations are matter-of-fact, describing both the physical and psychological walls she pushed through. It is a tale of endurance which, though it does include many details of her life and what motivated her to attempt the FKT, is not overly sentimental. The account is honest and raw. Yes, she flew through the PCT, but this does not mean she did not fully experience or appreciate the hike and the beauty of the wilderness, as her book makes clear. I really enjoyed this book, and think anyone interested in long trails and great athletic accomplishments will appreciate it as well.
In this regard, her accomplishment is absolutely unbelievable. Liz "Snorkel" Thomas has called Anish "possibly the greatest athlete in the world", and I would certainly not argue. She covered the entire PCT, self-supported, in 60 days, averaging over 40 miles a day. I found her day by day account very interesting. Her observations are matter-of-fact, describing both the physical and psychological walls she pushed through. It is a tale of endurance which, though it does include many details of her life and what motivated her to attempt the FKT, is not overly sentimental. The account is honest and raw. Yes, she flew through the PCT, but this does not mean she did not fully experience or appreciate the hike and the beauty of the wilderness, as her book makes clear. I really enjoyed this book, and think anyone interested in long trails and great athletic accomplishments will appreciate it as well.
