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Inside Sanna’s FKT Attempt: Highs, Lows, and Hard Calls
138 Miles. 36 Hours. Big Lessons, Bigger Spirit.
When you’re chasing big dreams on the trails, it’s never just about the finish line. It’s about the adventure, the lessons, and the community you encounter along the way.
On Thursday 24th of April, Harrier PRO Trail Team athlete Sanna Duthie set out to complete an incredible Fastest Known Time attempt: 186 miles along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in under 50 hours. It didn’t go exactly to plan, but the grit, resilience, and spirit she showed are exactly why we’re so proud to have her on the team.
Here’s Sanna’s honest, inspiring report from the attempt: the highs, the hard calls, and everything in between.
Location: Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Challenge: 186 Miles in 50 Hours or Less
Final Distance: 138 miles
Time: 36 hours 34 minutes
Well, this wasn’t the finish I’d hoped for, but wow, what a journey.
The Attempt
I set out to complete 186 miles in under 50 hours, aiming for a Fastest Known Time. I made it to 138 miles in 36 hours and 34 minutes before I had to make the tough call to stop. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one. My foot had swollen badly, and the pain was sharp and relentless, like a hot knife, and in those wet, harsh conditions, pushing through could’ve meant a long-term injury.
The Gear
One of the real wins of this adventure was the kit. I used the Harrier 10L – Kinder vest, and it was faultless. No back pain, no chafing, even with the crazy mix of heat and rain. I carried all my snacks with no faffing and no hand cramps — those side bottle holders are gold. For fluids, I had two 500ml bottles and a 300ml for my Coke fix (priorities!).
When the rain hit hard around 130 miles in, the Harrier Exmoor Pro coat came out. It kept my body dry and warm, even as my feet suffered. It’s so light I’d carried it from the start without even noticing it was there. At checkpoints, I threw on the Lomond insulated jacket — warm without sending me into sleepy territory, which is crucial during long efforts.
At 120 miles, I brought out the Helvellyn Pro poles to give my legs some backup for the final push. I don’t usually use poles, but I’m a convert now. They’re so light, I could eat and open gates while using them. Seriously impressed.
The Challenges
The biggest issue? Feet. I made the mistake of trying new socks, and for the first time ever, I started getting hot spots and blisters early on. My training had been solid, and I’d never struggled with foot issues before, so this caught me off guard. With my dad’s help, we managed them with fresh socks, tape, and foot powder. At 120 miles, my feet were looking surprisingly okay… until the rain came. Once they were soaked, it all went downhill. Pain set in, movement got tough, and eventually, my left foot swelled enough to make the decision for me.
The Highs
Even with the foot drama, this run was packed with joy. The support I had was incredible — old friends, new friends, work colleagues, and especially my dad and partner who were with me the whole way. Seeing my dad at each checkpoint felt like I was in a race with my hero as my crew. That energy lifted me every single time.
A highlight? Seeing Logan at Gelliswick out on the course. I was eating and drinking well, my spirits were high, and the views were unreal. Even in the hard moments, I was doing what I love, surrounded by people who get it.
The Aftermath
Yes, I’m gutted I didn’t complete the full 186 miles. But I also feel deeply grateful. For the support, the laughs, the stunning landscapes, and the strength to stop when I needed to. This attempt reminded me why I run: it’s not just for the finish line, it’s for the whole story. And this story isn’t over.
I'll be back. Smarter, stronger, and with better socks. This attempt lit a new fire in me, and I can’t wait to chase it down again, feet willing.
My next race is in France on the 8th of June, but much shorter. I hope I will be recovered in time, but as always will be sensible.
No matter the distance covered, this attempt shows exactly what makes Sanna and the trail running community so special. Courage, grit, wisdom, and the ability to celebrate every part of the adventure, not just the outcome.
We’re backing her every step of the way as she rests, recovers, and gets ready for her next challenge. Bring on the next chapter, Sanna!
Stephen Reid was with Sanna over the attempt and we will have a feature film on Sanna’s attempt out in July.
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