Untold Tales #5: The Barkley Marathons
Welcome to the latest edition of the Untold Tales Newsletter, where we delve into the extraordinary and overlooked chapters of history, bringing to light the stories that time almost forgot. Today, we cast our spotlight on an event that combines the thrill of adventure with the test of human endurance at its very extreme - the Barkley Marathons. Nestled in the rugged terrain of Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, this ultramarathon is not for the faint-hearted. With a course that is as whimsical as it is punishing, the Barkley Marathons stand as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge the limits of human capacity. This tale, much like the marathons themselves, is a labyrinth of unbelievable feats, heart-wrenching failures, and the raw, unadulterated joy of pursuing the seemingly impossible. Whether you're among our 567 dedicated subscribers or someone who's just stumbled upon this hidden gem of a story, prepare to be enthralled by the saga of the Barkley Marathons - a journey where the finish line is just the beginning of the story.
“I only wish you had suffered more out there.”
-Lazarus Lake
In the heart of Tennessee's rugged landscapes, hidden among the dense forests of Frozen Head State Park, lies a challenge that is as much a puzzle as it is a race. The Barkley Marathons, a name that evokes curiosity and awe, is not your ordinary ultramarathon. It's a beast of a different nature, crafted from the wild imagination of Gary "Lazarus Lake" Cantrell and his friend Karl Henn, also known as Raw Dog. The origin of this extraordinary event is steeped in a mixture of humor, defiance, and the spirit of adventure, inspired by the 1977 escape of James Earl Ray from the nearby Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary. Cantrell's offhand remark about outdoing Ray's meager distance led to the creation of one of the most grueling endurance races known to man.
First taking place in 1986, the Barkley Marathons has evolved from its initial 50–55 miles to an astounding 100-mile journey filled with over 54,200 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Named in honor of Cantrell's neighbor and running mate, Barry Barkley, the race has seen modifications over the years but has always maintained its core elements: a secretive registration process, a course shrouded in mystery, and requirements that border on the bizarre.
A Race Like No Other
The race is limited to 40 runners, with entry details kept under wraps. Applicants must pen an essay on "Why I Should be Allowed to Run in the Barkley," accompanied by a modest $1.60 application fee. Acceptance is met with a "letter of condolence," beginning the psychological battle that is as integral to the race as the physical challenge ahead. First-time runners, or "virgins," must bring a license plate from their home region, while returning non-finishers provide items that vary based on Lazarus Lake's current whims. Veterans of the race have the unique privilege of contributing a pack of Camel cigarettes.
The Barkley's course, an unmarked 20-mile loop repeated five times for the full race, offers no aid except water at two points. Competitors must navigate by their own wits and preparation, collecting pages from hidden books along the way to prove their journey. This element adds an almost mythical layer to the challenge, as if the runners are collecting pieces of a story as well as miles under their feet.
Legends and Milestones
Over the years, the Barkley Marathons has seen its share of heartbreak and triumph. From Ed Furtaw, the first finisher of the original course, to Mark Williams, who conquered the extended version, the race has been a stage for extraordinary human endeavor. The event was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but came roaring back with stories that continue to inspire and awe. In 2023, British runner Jasmin Paris became a beacon of endurance and determination by becoming the fourth woman to complete the three-loop 'Fun Run' twice and starting the fourth loop. By 2024, she shattered expectations by becoming the first woman to complete all five loops within the 60-hour cutoff, a mere 99 seconds before the deadline.
A Symphony of Human Will
The Barkley Marathons are a symphony of human will, nature's unforgiving terrain, and the camaraderie that emerges from shared struggle. The race begins with the lighting of a cigarette, a signal that sets hearts racing and feet moving. Runners must then embark on a journey that tests not only their physical endurance but their mental fortitude, resilience, and adaptability. The race's timing, unpredictable start, and the requirement to collect book pages along the way add layers of strategy and unpredictability.
When a runner cannot go on, the sound of a bugler playing "Taps" marks their return, a poignant reminder of the race's merciless nature. Stories like Gary Robbins' heartbreaking finish six seconds past the cutoff in 2017 underscore the race's brutal honesty and the thin line between legend and the nearly-made-its.
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